Jeremiyah Love Emerges as Top NFL Draft Target for Cardinals

Notre Dame RB's impressive stats and potential to boost Arizona's rushing attack make him a coveted prospect

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:49am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a football game broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, capturing the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of the sport.The 2026 NFL Draft promises to be a pivotal moment for the Arizona Cardinals as they weigh the potential impact of selecting Notre Dame's star running back Jeremiyah Love.Denver Today

The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, with Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love emerging as a top target for the Arizona Cardinals. Love's exceptional college performance, including winning the Doak Walker Award, has caught the attention of the Cardinals, who finished 31st in rushing yards per game in 2025 and are in need of a premier running back to bolster their offense.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' potential selection of Love could have a significant impact on the team's future. With the third overall pick, they have the opportunity to address their running back needs by acquiring a talented player who could transform their rushing attack. However, this move could also affect the role of current Cardinals running back Tyler Allgeier, who may find himself in a backup position once again.

The details

Love, a 6-foot, 212-pound powerhouse, has impressive stats from his college career, averaging 6.9 yards per carry on 433 attempts and scoring 40 touchdowns (35 rushing, 5 receiving) in 41 games. ESPN's Peter Schrager has identified the Cardinals as a "wild card to watch" in the Love draft derby, as the team's third overall pick could be the perfect opportunity to address their running back needs.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Jeremiyah Love

A Notre Dame running back who won the Doak Walker Award in 2025 and is considered a top prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Tyler Allgeier

A running back who signed with the Arizona Cardinals in the offseason, but may face a reduced role if the team selects Jeremiyah Love in the draft.

James Conner

The Arizona Cardinals' current starting running back, who has been retained on a revised contract.

Peter Schrager

An ESPN analyst who has identified the Arizona Cardinals as a "wild card to watch" in the Jeremiyah Love draft derby.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.