Why won’t the Cardinals name their starting running back?

Technically, that’s true. Strategically, it isn’t much of an answer. Love entered the NFL with the reputation of being one of college football’s most explosive offensive weapons. Players with his combination of vision, acceleration and home-run ability aren’t typically drafted to become rotational pieces. They’re drafted to become foundational players. Arizona still has James Conner, whose leadership and physical running style remain more than valuable, along with newcomer Tyler Allgeier. Depth is important over a 17-game season. But depth and uncertainty aren’t the same thing.

The Cardinals also aren’t built around a dominant offensive line capable of supporting chemistry with a three-man committee. Successful rushing attacks often thrive because one back establishes rhythm, forcing defenses to adjust while creating consistency for the entire offense. If Love isn’t ready, that’s understandable, as rookie adjustments are real. But if Arizona reaches Week 1 without knowing who its featured back is, that signals a larger identity issue rather than healthy competition.

Training camp battles are valuable only when they produce clarity. For Cardinals fans, the preseason isn’t just about who wins carries. It’s about whether HC Mike LaFluer and OC Nathaniel Hackett have a defined vision for an offense expected to take a major step forward in 2026. Until a starter emerges, the Cardinals’ biggest offensive question remains unanswered, and that uncertainty may matter more than any preseason highlight.