Jerimiyah Love, the standout running back from the University of Notre Dame, has emerged as the top-ranked running back prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class, according to two of the most respected draft analysts in the industry, Mel Kiper Jr. and Matt Miller. Their evaluation and consensus place Love in the spotlight as one of the most exciting young talents in college football today, signaling a bright future for the star athlete as he progresses through his collegiate career and prepares for the transition to professional football.
Being named the No. 1 running back in any draft class is a significant accolade. It highlights a player’s skill set, athleticism, and potential to impact the game at the highest level. For Jerimiyah Love, this recognition by Kiper and Miller is the culmination of his impressive performances at Notre Dame, where he has displayed the kind of versatility, vision, and physicality that NFL teams covet in a running back. Love’s journey to this top ranking is a testament not only to his raw talent but also to his relentless work ethic, football intelligence, and ability to rise to big occasions.
At Notre Dame, a school with a storied football tradition, Love has quickly become one of the key offensive weapons. His running style is a blend of power and agility. He possesses the strength to break tackles and the quickness to evade defenders, which makes him incredibly difficult to contain once he hits the open field. Scouts and analysts frequently praise his balance and ability to maintain forward momentum through contact, a trait that often separates good running backs from elite ones. Beyond just rushing, Love has shown promise in the passing game, with reliable hands and the capability to line up as a receiver out of the backfield. This multi-dimensional skill set adds tremendous value, making him a dynamic threat on any down.
Mel Kiper Jr., a veteran draft analyst who has evaluated thousands of NFL prospects over decades, sees something special in Love. Kiper’s rankings and mock drafts are closely watched by NFL teams, media, and fans alike, and his endorsement carries weight. According to Kiper, Love’s combination of size, speed, and instincts positions him as the clear leader among running backs in the 2026 class. Kiper points to Love’s production on the field as well as his ability to perform in high-pressure situations as evidence of his readiness to succeed at the next level. Likewise, Matt Miller, another prominent analyst with a deep understanding of player potential and fit in the modern NFL, echoes this sentiment. Miller’s evaluations emphasize Love’s overall athletic profile, his technical skills, and his fit within today’s evolving NFL offenses, which increasingly value running backs who can contribute in multiple phases.
It’s important to consider the context in which Love has risen to the top of the rankings. The 2026 NFL Draft class is expected to be rich with talent, especially at the skill positions. Yet, Love has managed to distinguish himself in a competitive field of collegiate running backs, many of whom boast impressive stats and physical traits. His ability to stand out is indicative of the kind of player he is—one with the rare blend of natural ability and refined technique that can translate into NFL success. Furthermore, Notre Dame’s offensive system, known for its balance and emphasis on both the run and the pass, has helped Love develop a well-rounded game. He’s not just a one-dimensional runner but a true all-purpose back who can handle diverse responsibilities.
From a scouting perspective, teams evaluating Love will be intrigued by his physical attributes as well. He has an ideal size for an NFL running back—combining durability with explosiveness. At the same time, Love’s speed and agility allow him to make defenders miss in the open field and create big plays. His vision, often cited by coaches, enables him to find running lanes and anticipate defenders’ movements. These traits are complemented by his work ethic and leadership qualities, which have been noted by teammates and coaches alike. Leaders in the locker room often make a big difference in team dynamics, and Love’s maturity and professionalism add to his appeal as a draft prospect.
The recognition from Mel Kiper and Matt Miller also highlights the growing attention Notre Dame players receive from the NFL. The Fighting Irish have long been a pipeline for NFL talent, and Love’s emergence as a top running back prospect continues that tradition. Notre Dame’s reputation for preparing players both physically and mentally for the rigors of professional football is well-established, and Love benefits from this environment. The coaching staff’s emphasis on fundamentals, discipline, and adaptability equips players like Love with the tools they need to succeed at the next level. For NFL teams, this background provides confidence that Love will be ready to contribute early in his professional career.
Looking ahead, Jerimiyah Love’s future is filled with promise, but it will also require continued growth and consistency. The road to the NFL is challenging, and the transition from college to professional football is often difficult. However, Love’s current trajectory suggests he has the foundation to overcome these challenges. As he gains more experience and hones his craft at Notre Dame, scouts will be watching closely to see how he performs against top competition, how he handles increased defensive focus, and how he adapts to different game situations.
The running back position in the NFL has evolved in recent years, with teams placing greater emphasis on backs who can do more than just run between the tackles. The modern NFL values backs who can catch passes, block effectively in pass protection, and contribute on special teams. Love’s skill set aligns well with this trend. His ability to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield and his sound fundamentals in blocking assignments increase his versatility, making him a more attractive prospect to teams looking for a complete back.
In addition to his on-field attributes, Love’s character and work ethic are often highlighted by those around him. Coaches praise his dedication to improving every aspect of his game, from conditioning to film study. His teammates respect his leadership and the example he sets both on and off the field. These intangible qualities are sometimes overlooked in draft evaluations but often prove to be key factors in a player’s long-term success in the NFL. Love’s combination of talent and character makes him a prospect that teams can feel confident investing in.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, it will be interesting to watch how Love’s draft stock evolves. Will he maintain his position as the top running back prospect? How will other emerging talents affect the overall rankings? These are questions that analysts, scouts, and fans alike will be eager to see answered. For now, the consensus from experts like Mel Kiper and Matt Miller positions Jerimiyah Love as the premier running back in the class, setting expectations high for his upcoming seasons at Notre Dame and beyond.
In summary, Jerimiyah Love’s rise to the No. 1 running back ranking in the 2026 NFL Draft class is a significant achievement that reflects his extraordinary talent, versatility, and potential. Supported by glowing evaluations from respected draft analysts Mel Kiper Jr. and Matt Miller, Love stands poised to become one of the most exciting players in college football. His blend of power, speed, vision, and character not only makes him a standout at Notre Dame but also a promising prospect for the NFL. As he continues to develop and showcase his abilities, Love has the opportunity to make a lasting impact both in college and at the professional level, fulfilling the high expectations placed on him by scouts, analysts, and fans alike.
