The 2026 NFL Draft is roughly one month away, and many players are undergoing Pro Days at their respective colleges.
One of those athletes is Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love. The star back is a projected top-five pick and is viewed by many as the best athlete in the draft.
After Love shone at the NFL Combine, his draft stock rose even higher. He was one of the few athletes projected as a top pick to compete in the event’s drills, including a 4.36-second 40-yard dash.
What Jeremiyah Love Said at Notre Dame Pro Day
Love was considered a first-round talent before the 2025 season began, and he cemented that status with a spectacular final season in South Bend. Now, following his impressive combine performance, Love participated in the Notre Dame Pro Day on March 24.
The running back did not shy away from reporters during the event. In fact, he made a statement that turned heads across the league.
“Jeremiyah Love talking after Pro Day asked about his goals for the NFL and casually mentions a ‘gold jacket’ and a ‘third contract’ as well as winning offensive rookie of the year and making the Pro Bowl next season,” The Athletic’s Notre Dame beat reporter Pete Sampson wrote on X. “Again, just casually. Just rolled off the tongue.”
Love is projected to be an NFL star, but many talented prospects have failed to meet such lofty expectations. Fewer still actually pan out, and a very small portion eventually land in Canton.
Love’s statement shows an unwavering belief in himself and his ability to make an immediate impact. By mentioning Offensive Rookie of the Year and the Pro Bowl, he signaled his intent to dominate early. By mentioning a “gold jacket,” he confirmed he intends to play for many years and cement himself as one of the greats.
While it is a significant goal, his collegiate production suggests he has the tools. If Love can replicate his college success in the NFL, he could find himself in a gold jacket in 20 years.
The Notre Dame product averaged 5.4 yards per carry in his freshman season, rushing for 385 yards and one touchdown. He added 77 receiving yards and another score. Then, Love took off.
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In his sophomore season, the star ran for 1,125 yards and 17 touchdowns. He added 28 receptions for 237 yards and two touchdowns. He followed that with a unanimous All-American junior season, rushing for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns, with 27 receptions for 280 yards and three scores.
Love averaged 6.9 yards per carry across 2024 and 2025. He finished third in Heisman Trophy voting last season.
