The Notre Dame Fighting Irish had a lot of talent on last season’s roster. However, there are some key contributors who are not returning and instead entering the 2026 NFL Draft. While the Fighting Irish are going to be littered throughout the draft class, they have one of the top players in the entire class. Let’s take a closer look at who believes Notre Dame has one of the most talented players getting ready for their rookie NFL season.
Mel Kiper Jr. ranks Jeremiyah Love as the second-best player in the 2026 NFL Draft class
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. wrote an article discussing his Big Board for the top 25 players in the 2026 NFL Draft class. The first person is the reigning Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, but right behind him is Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Below is what he wrote about Love:
“Love reminds me a lot of Reggie Bush. The 20-year-old has vision and burst between the tackles and to the outside, and he can break tackles with ease (60 forced missed tackles on the 2025 season). Once he gets into space, he can take it to the house with his breakaway speed too. But Love isn’t only an outstanding runner. He also is a high-impact pass catcher. An NFL team will be able to flank him out wide and create a whole other dimension of the offense.”
Love had an outstanding season where he finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting. The All-American recorded 199 rushing attempts for 1,372 yards (6.7 yards per carry) with 18 rushing touchdowns while also adding 27 receptions for 280 yards (10.4 yards per catch) and three touchdowns. His 21 total touchdowns set a program record.
With multiple teams at the top of the draft needing a running back, it will be intriguing to see which one selects Love.
Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love makes NFL combine history
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