Jeremiyah Love, the former Notre Dame running back and Heisman finalist, has been making waves in the 2026 NFL Draft conversation. While he hasn’t officially been linked to all 32 teams, it’s clear that he’s on the radar of many franchises, especially those with high draft picks.
The Arizona Cardinals are among the teams considering Love as a potential selection. According to Sports Illustrated senior NFL writer Albert Breer, the Cardinals are looking to move down from the No. 3 overall pick due to the lack of top-tier talent in this year’s class. However, Breer also mentioned that if the team stays at No. 3, Love could be a strong candidate for the selection.
“Look, I mean, I think for ownership, this is obviously a guy who can create some sizzle for you. I also think for [Cardinals general manager] Monti Ossenfort, this is one he’s gotta get right. And taking Jeremiyah Love, despite the position, is parking one in the middle of the fairway,” Breer said.
Breer added that while Arvell Reese, a former Ohio State edge rusher, is a name often discussed, Love is another strong contender for the No. 3 pick. This highlights the growing interest in Love as a versatile playmaker who could make an immediate impact on any team’s offense.
While Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza is expected to be the first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders, many analysts believe Love is the best overall prospect in the 2026 class. He has consistently been projected to go No. 4 to the Tennessee Titans, but his potential to be selected earlier is not out of the question.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. noted that Love’s performance last season at Notre Dame makes him a top-tier prospect. In 2025, Love recorded 199 carries for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns, averaging 6.9 yards per carry. Additionally, he added 280 receiving yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a receiver.
“While the case could easily be made that Tennessee has other, more important holes to fill on its roster, it’d be a mistake to look at Love solely as a traditional running back. He’s a playmaker who can put a jolt in the Titans’ offense in the backfield with quarterback Cam Ward,” Kiper said.
Love’s unique skill set and explosive performance have led to comparisons with past standout running backs like Saquon Barkley, who was selected second overall in 2018. The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in recent years, with Love at the center of much of the excitement.
As the draft approaches, teams will continue to evaluate their needs and determine how best to use their picks. The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23 to April 25 in Pittsburgh, where the fates of thousands of prospects will be decided.
In addition to Love, several other players are expected to make an impact in the draft. Teams are closely watching how the selections unfold, particularly in the top five picks, where Love could potentially be chosen.
With so much speculation and anticipation, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the 2026 NFL Draft will shape up. Whether Love ends up being a top pick or falls slightly later, his presence in the conversation underscores his potential to become a key player in the league.
As the event draws closer, all eyes will be on the draft room, where decisions will be made that could define the future of multiple NFL franchises.
