Jeremiyah Love projects as a potential top-five pick in the 2026 NFL Draft—a feat not achieved by a running back since Saquon Barkley in 2018.
The Notre Dame standout confirmed his status as the top running back prospect in his class with a blistering 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, the second-fastest time among all running backs at the event (Mike Washington Jr. of Arkansas led with 4.33 seconds).
Combine Performance
Love participated in all drills, including position-specific exercises, solidifying his draft stock. His 4.36 40-yard dash underscores his elite speed.
Collegiate Statistics
Over three seasons at Notre Dame, Love compiled impressive numbers:
- Rushing: 2,882 yards and 36 touchdowns on 433 carries (6.7 yards per carry)
- Final Season: 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns on 199 carries
- Receiving: 63 receptions for 594 yards and six touchdowns
Draft Projection
If selected in the top five, Love would be the first running back drafted that high since Saquon Barkley (2nd overall, 2018). Bijan Robinson (8th overall in 2023) is the most recent running back taken in the top 10.
Player Profile
Listed at six feet tall and weighing 212 to 214 pounds, Love combines prototypical size with game-breaking speed.
Reported Strengths:
- Speed and agility
- Vision and cut-back ability
- Contact balance and yards after contact
- Receiving ability out of the backfield or lined up in the slot
- Instinctive feel for manipulating tempo and pathing
Reported Weaknesses:
- Below-average pass protection; tendency to get blown up or hesitate
- Can round off routes
- Average mass may limit power between tackles
Player Self-Assessment
Love described himself as a "three-down back" capable of contributing in receiving, running, blocking, and special teams. He emphasized his blocking ability as underrated, stating he has "pretty much dominated everybody just trying to rush me."