Cardinals Face Major Injury Concerns Ahead of Broncos Showdown

The Denver Broncos could face an Arizona Cardinals team dealing with significant injury concerns when the two clubs meet Sunday at State Farm Stadium.

Rookie running back Jeremiyah Love was among eight Cardinals players who did not participate in Wednesday's practice, raising questions about Arizona's personnel on both sides of the ball entering Week 7.

According to Arizona's initial injury report, Love remains sidelined by an ankle injury suffered during the Cardinals' Week 4 matchup against the New York Giants.

Love has been dealing with the injury for several weeks and missed Arizona's Week 6 victory over the Los Angeles Rams.

His continued absence from practice raises questions about whether he'll be available against Denver.

Arizona also has several concerns on defense.

Safety Budda Baker missed Wednesday's practice with a groin issue and illness, while defensive lineman Walter Nolen III remained sidelined by an ankle injury.

Cornerback Garrett Williams did not practice because of a knee injury, and safety Andrew Wingard was absent with a knee problem.

Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur acknowledged that illness has also affected the organization, including Baker and offensive lineman Jedrick Wills Jr.

Wills missed Wednesday's practice, while linebacker Josh Sweat and offensive lineman Isaac Seumalo received scheduled rest days.

Those rest days are important to distinguish from injury-related absences, which could affect Arizona's lineup Sunday.

Arizona's secondary could be particularly vulnerable if multiple injured defenders are unavailable.

Cornerback Max Melton was limited by a knee injury, while safety Wydett Williams Jr. participated on a limited basis while recovering from a concussion.

That could create opportunities for a Denver offense that has struggled to find consistent production despite its winning record.

The Broncos enter Sunday's matchup at 4-2 following a 17-14 overtime victory against Seattle.

Denver has injury concerns of its own, although the team recently received encouraging news about the potential return of key defensive contributors.

Arizona's injury situation could play a significant role in determining how Sunday's matchup unfolds.

Thursday's practice report should provide a clearer indication of whether Love, Baker and the other injured Cardinals are progressing toward playing against Denver.