Full Breakdown
Jeremiyah Love Declares for the 2026 NFL Draft
12/17/2025, 12:06:13 PM
Overview of the Announcement
Jeremiyah Love, the standout running back for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. The announcement was made via social media on December 16, 2025, following a remarkable junior season that solidified his status as one of the top prospects in college football. Love's decision comes after Notre Dame's 10-2 season, which ended abruptly when the team was left out of the College Football Playoff and opted not to participate in a bowl game.
Stellar College Career
During his time at Notre Dame, Love established himself as a premier running back. In the 2025 season, he rushed for 1,372 yards and scored 18 rushing touchdowns, ranking him third nationally. His 21 all-purpose touchdowns set a new single-season record for the program, surpassing the previous record held by Jerome Bettis. Love's performance earned him the Doak Walker Award, recognizing him as the nation's top running back, and he finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting, the highest finish for a non-quarterback this year.
Over three seasons, Love accumulated 2,882 rushing yards and 42 total touchdowns, placing him among the top scorers in Notre Dame history. His ability to break tackles and maintain balance made him a dynamic player, highlighted by notable performances, including a 228-yard game against USC.
Official Statements & Responses
In his announcement, Love expressed gratitude towards his family, coaches, and teammates, stating, "I know I am prepared for this moment because of the amazing people I have in my life." He emphasized the impact of his experiences at Notre Dame, saying, "I could not have picked a better place for me to grow into the man I am today." Love's head coach, Marcus Freeman, acknowledged his contributions, calling him "one of the best players in the country."
Criticism & Opposition
While Love's decision to enter the draft was anticipated, it has left some Notre Dame fans disappointed, as they hoped he would return for his senior season. The potential departure of fellow running back Jadarian Price, who is also a top draft-eligible prospect, raises concerns about the future of the Fighting Irish's backfield. If Price follows Love's lead, Notre Dame could face a significant loss in offensive production.
What's Next for Love
As Love prepares for the NFL Draft, he is projected to be one of the first running backs selected, with some analysts ranking him as high as the third overall pick. The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23-25, 2026, in Pittsburgh, where Love will showcase his skills at the NFL Combine and Notre Dame's Pro Day.
Conclusion
Jeremiyah Love's declaration for the 2026 NFL Draft marks the end of a prolific college career at Notre Dame. His achievements on the field have set a high bar for future running backs, and he leaves a legacy as one of the most electrifying players in the program's history. As he transitions to the professional level, Love's journey will be closely followed by fans and analysts alike, eager to see where his talents will take him next.
