Chiefs Predicted to Draft 36-TD Rookie RB in 2026

Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love could solve Kansas City's running back issues.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 11:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Kansas City Chiefs have struggled to find a consistent and productive starting running back since 2017, when Kareem Hunt rushed for over 1,300 yards. In the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chiefs are predicted to select Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, who rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025, with the 7th overall pick.

Why it matters

The Chiefs' inability to develop a reliable running game has been a persistent issue, hampering their high-powered offense. Drafting an elite talent like Love could immediately address this need and provide the team with a dynamic every-down back to complement their passing attack.

The details

Love is widely considered the top running back prospect in the 2026 class after a standout 2025 season at Notre Dame, where he rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also caught 63 passes for 594 yards and 6 scores, showcasing his skills as a receiver. Love finished third in Heisman Trophy voting and earned First-team All-American honors in 2025.

  • In 2017, Kareem Hunt rushed for 1,327 yards and 8 touchdowns for the Chiefs.
  • Since 2017, the Chiefs have not had a 1,000-yard rusher.
  • In 2025, Kareem Hunt led the Chiefs with just 611 rushing yards at age 30.
  • The Chiefs are projected to have an early pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after a poor 2025 season.

The players

Jeremiyah Love

A running back prospect from Notre Dame who rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025, finishing third in Heisman Trophy voting and earning First-team All-American honors.

Kareem Hunt

A former Chiefs running back who rushed for over 1,300 yards in 2017, but has struggled with injuries and inconsistency since then.

Isiah Pacheco

A Chiefs running back who has shown flashes but has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Love is widely considered to be the top running back in this class and could immediately be an every-down back in the league.”

— Bucky Brooks, NFL Analyst (Sporting News)

What’s next

The Chiefs will have the opportunity to select Jeremiyah Love with their high draft pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which could immediately address their long-standing issues at the running back position.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' inability to develop a consistent running game has been a persistent problem, but drafting an elite talent like Jeremiyah Love in 2026 could be the solution they need to complement their high-powered passing attack and return to the top of the AFC.