Notre Dame Star Love Declares for NFL Draft With Bold Statement

Notre Dames standout running back makes his next move toward the pros after a record-breaking season and Heisman-worthy campaign.

Jeremiyah Love is heading to the NFL.

The Notre Dame star running back officially announced Tuesday that he’s declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft, capping off a stellar college career that firmly cemented him as one of the top prospects at his position.

“I know I am prepared for this moment because of the amazing people I have in my life,” Love said in a statement - a nod to the support system that’s helped guide him through three standout seasons in South Bend.

And make no mistake: Love didn’t just play well at Notre Dame - he dominated. Over the past two seasons, he racked up more than 1,100 rushing yards and 19 scrimmage touchdowns each year.

His 2025 campaign was his best yet, putting up career highs with 1,372 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground, while averaging a staggering 6.9 yards per carry. That level of efficiency isn’t just eye-catching - it’s rare.

Love’s blend of power, vision, and breakaway speed made him a nightmare for defenses. But what sets him apart in this draft class is his versatility.

He’s not just a downhill runner - he’s a legitimate weapon in the passing game. Across 41 games for the Fighting Irish, he tallied 63 receptions for 594 yards and six receiving touchdowns.

That dual-threat ability makes him a modern NFL back - the kind of player who can stay on the field all three downs and make an impact in any situation.

His efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Love was a Heisman Trophy finalist this season, finishing third in the voting behind quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza and Diego Pavia. That’s no small feat in a field typically dominated by signal-callers.

Now, with his college legacy secure, Love turns his attention to the next level - and he’s doing so with plenty of momentum. He’s widely projected as a first-round pick, and it’s easy to see why. In an era where running backs have to do more than just run, Love checks every box: production, athleticism, pass-catching ability, and big-game experience.

The NFL will get a closer look at him in the coming months, but based on what he’s already shown, Jeremiyah Love looks ready to make an immediate impact on Sundays.