Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame’s electrifying running back, has officially declared his intention to forgo his senior season and enter the upcoming NFL Draft. The announcement came on Tuesday, just three days after Love concluded his remarkable collegiate career by finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting, an award ultimately claimed by Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Love’s decision marks a significant moment for both the player and the Fighting Irish program. He expressed his profound gratitude for his time at Notre Dame, highlighting the people who shaped his experience. “Making the decision to attend Notre Dame was easy because of the people,” Love stated in an Instagram Story post. “From the amazing football support staff to my fellow students — I could not have picked a better place for me to grow into the man I am today.”
The star running back emphasized his eagerness to translate the lessons learned at Notre Dame to the professional level. “It is with a wealth of gratitude I will take the many experiences Notre Dame has given me and apply those lessons learned as I move onto the next level,” he continued. “I look forward to representing my family and Notre Dame in the NFL.”
A Stellar Junior Season and Accolades
Love’s junior campaign was nothing short of spectacular. He amassed an impressive 1,372 rushing yards and scored 18 touchdowns on the ground. In addition to his ground game dominance, he proved to be a dual-threat weapon, hauling in 27 receptions for 280 yards and adding three more scores through the air. This outstanding season culminated in him becoming Notre Dame’s first-ever recipient of the prestigious Doak Walker Award, an honor bestowed annually upon the nation’s top running back in college football.
The conclusion of Love’s junior season was somewhat abrupt, as Notre Dame, with a 10-2 record, did not qualify for the College Football Playoff and subsequently opted out of participating in a bowl game. This decision meant his final collegiate game was the team’s regular-season finale.
A Look Back at His Impact
Love’s junior season success built upon a stellar sophomore year. During that season, he was a pivotal force in Notre Dame’s run to the College Football Playoff championship game. He rushed for 1,125 yards and 17 touchdowns on 163 carries. Although the Fighting Irish ultimately fell 34-23 to Ohio State in the championship contest, Love’s contributions were undeniable. He also displayed his versatility that year with 28 catches for 237 yards and two touchdowns.
Love’s departure signals the end of an era for Notre Dame’s backfield. His blend of power, speed, and receiving ability made him a constant threat and a fan favorite. His decision to enter the NFL Draft, foregoing his final year of eligibility, underscores his confidence in his readiness for the professional ranks. NFL scouts will undoubtedly be keen to analyze his game tape, recognizing his proven ability to perform at the highest level of collegiate football. His journey from South Bend to the NFL promises to be one of the most closely watched storylines in the upcoming draft cycle.
