Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is generating significant buzz ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, with Fighting Irish head coach Marcus Freeman offering some of the strongest praise imaginable for his star playmaker. Speaking on Colin Cowherd’s show, Freeman called Love “as good as any player I’ve ever been around,” describing him as a rare “unicorn” with a uniquely versatile skill set.
Jeremiyah Love Showcases Rare Versatility And Explosive Athletic Traits At Notre Dame
Freeman emphasized that Love’s athletic profile extends well beyond the running back position. He highlighted that Love could potentially excel as a wide receiver or defensive back due to his blend of size, agility, and instincts. At 6-foot, Love combines power and speed in a way that allows him to both break tackles and outrun defenders, making him a constant big-play threat whenever he touches the ball.
On the field, Love has shown the ability to explode through running lanes while maintaining balance and acceleration through contact. His agility allows him to evade defenders without losing momentum, while his strength helps him consistently gain extra yards after contact. In addition to his rushing ability, he has demonstrated strong receiving skills, including precise route running and reliable hands, adding another layer to his offensive value.
Jeremiyah Love Praised For Hidden Impact Plays As Top Five Draft Debate Intensifies
Freeman also pointed out that Love’s impact is not limited to highlight-reel plays. Some of his most valuable contributions come from turning potential negative plays into manageable gains through effort, awareness, and balance. These “hidden” plays, as described by Freeman, often go unnoticed on broadcast footage but stand out on film as evidence of his instincts and consistency.
Despite the excitement surrounding his talent, questions remain about draft value, particularly for teams picking in the top five. Running backs are not always prioritized that early in the NFL Draft, even for highly dynamic prospects. As the draft approaches, teams must decide whether Love’s rare versatility and explosiveness justify such a premium selection or whether positional value will push him further down the board.
