JeremiyahLove

News: 1 day agoLove (ankle) was listed as the No. 2 running back behind Tyler Allgeier on the Cardinals' unofficial depth chart released prior to Sunday's season opener versus the Chargers, Bo Brack of GoPHNX.com reports.

Spin: The third overall pick in this April's draft, Love will eventually settle in as the unquestioned No. 1 option in the backfield, but he could be eased into action while he works his way back from the high-ankle sprain he sustained Aug. 13. Head coach Mike LaFleur said Monday that he's optimistic Love will be available Sunday, but even if the rookie manages to practice without limitations by the end of the week, he seems likely to share the load with Allgeier until he's fully up to speed.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Love was selected by the Cardinals with the No. 3 overall pick of April's draft. Love has good size and terrific speed (4.36 40-yard dash) to go along with a three-down skill set. He led this year's rookie class in both yards per carry (6.66) and yards after contact (4.16) while ranking second in forced missed tackle rate (3.5) during his collegiate career. He's a capable receiver at all levels, a competent pass blocker and protects the ball well (one fumble on 496 career touches). Love will immediately slot in as Arizona's feature back and, especially considering each of the past nine running backs drafted in the top 12 went on to finish top 12 in fantasy points as a rookie, he should be valued as a midrange RB1 with elite upside.