Dallas eyes Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love as potential franchise RB for 2026
The Dallas Cowboys are setting their sights on Notre Dame’s standout running back, Jeremiyah Love, as a potential franchise cornerstone for the 2026 NFL Draft. With a blend of speed, power, and versatility, Love has emerged as one of college football’s premier talents, drawing comparisons to former NFL stars and capturing the attention of scouts and analysts alike.
Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, Jeremiyah Love joined the Notre Dame Fighting Irish as a highly touted four-star recruit in the class of 2023. Standing at 6 feet and weighing 206 pounds, Love quickly made an impact on the field. In the 2024 season, he amassed 1,125 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on just 163 carries, averaging an impressive 6.9 yards per attempt.
Love’s performance wasn’t limited to the ground game. He also contributed 237 receiving yards, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. His ability to force missed tackles, with a 38% forced missed tackle rate, and his knack for explosive plays have solidified his reputation as a dynamic playmaker.
The Cowboys have been in search of a consistent and dynamic presence in their backfield since the departure of Ezekiel Elliott. While Tony Pollard showed promise, injuries and inconsistencies have plagued the position. In the 2025 NFL Draft, Dallas selected Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah in the later rounds, but the need for a true RB1 remains.
Jeremiyah Love’s skill set aligns perfectly with the Cowboys’ offensive aspirations. His combination of speed, power, and receiving ability makes him an ideal candidate to rejuvenate Dallas’s ground game. Analysts have projected Love as a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with some considering him the best running back prospect in the country.
Love’s playing style has drawn comparisons to former NFL running back Kenyan Drake, known for his versatility and home-run hitting ability. His track speed and receiving prowess make him a threat in multiple facets of the game. Early projections suggest that Love could become the first Notre Dame running back selected in the first round since Jerome Bettis in 1993.
ESPN analyst Jordan Reid has also projected Love as a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, further emphasizing his rising stock among NFL scouts.
Jeremiyah Love’s ascent in college football has positioned him as a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. His potential fit with the Dallas Cowboys offers an exciting possibility for both the player and the franchise. As the Cowboys continue to seek a dynamic presence in their backfield, Love’s blend of athleticism, versatility, and production makes him a compelling candidate to become their next franchise running back.
