Jeremiyah Love is the standout running back prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, with a potential top-5 overall pick status. However, the initial wave of NFL free agency has thrown a wrench into the potential landing spots for Love.
Hailing from Notre Dame, Love boasts a versatile skill set that makes him a coveted asset at the next level. He’s in the same league of potential game-changers as recent top-12 picks like Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs. But as teams make moves in free agency, finding a team with a clear need for a running back has become a bit more challenging.
Signings That Impact Love’s Prospects
The Kansas City Chiefs, often linked to Love in mock drafts, have made a significant move by signing Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker to a 3-year, $45 million deal. This acquisition likely takes them out of the running for Love with their No. 9 overall pick.
Similarly, the Arizona Cardinals, who hold the No. 3 pick, are undergoing a major rebuild after parting ways with QB Kyler Murray and revamping their coaching staff. New head coach Mike LaFleur has brought in free agent RB Tyler Allgeier on a two-year deal and restructured veteran RB James Conner’s contract. While these moves don’t entirely rule out drafting Love, Arizona’s pressing needs at offensive tackle, defensive end, and safety might take precedence.
Balancing Needs and Value
This is the dilemma facing Love. Teams picking high in the draft with a need for a running back also have significant gaps at more critical positions.
Take the Tennessee Titans, who hold the No. 4 pick. Love would pair well with 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward as the Titans look to rise in the AFC South.
However, Tennessee has urgent needs for an interior offensive lineman, a pass rusher, and a linebacker, which might outweigh the necessity to replace veteran Tony Pollard.
New York and New Orleans Scenarios
The New York Jets, holding the No. 2 pick, have already invested heavily in RB Breece Hall, making it unlikely they’ll double down at the position. Their neighbors, the New York Giants, have the No. 5 pick and are focused on filling gaps at right guard, wide receiver, and linebacker, even after signing Tremaine Edmunds. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints, picking 8th, have added Travis Etienne on a $52 million deal, further complicating their potential interest in Love.
With the first day of free agency already reshuffling the deck, the question remains: How many more teams will close their doors on Love as free agency progresses? This could determine whether Love hears his name called in the top five picks or waits until the teens when the NFL Draft kicks off in Pittsburgh in late April.