The Arizona Cardinals are considering Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, according to reports. The decision comes as the Cardinals explore trading down due to a lack of elite talent at premium positions in this draft class.
Love, a Heisman finalist, is widely regarded as the best overall prospect in the draft, though his position as a running back has led some analysts to question whether he should be selected in the top five. The Tennessee Titans, holding the No. 4 pick, are also strongly linked to Love, with general manager Mike Borgonzi calling him a "special player."
Draft analysts and NFL executives have praised Love’s versatility, with comparisons to dual-threat backs like Christian McCaffrey and Jahmyr Gibbs. However, the devaluation of running backs in recent years has raised questions about whether Love will be selected in the top five.
The Cardinals’ interest in Love is notable, as they have been linked to other top prospects, including Arvell Reese, an edge rusher from Ohio State. Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer suggested that Love could be a "sizzle" pick for the Cardinals, given his playmaking ability and potential to generate excitement.
Love’s draft stock has fluctuated, with some projecting him to go as high as No. 3 and others suggesting he could fall outside the top five. ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. noted that Love has the talent to be a top-five selection, though he acknowledged that the Titans may prioritize other positions.
The draft’s lack of elite quarterback talent has further complicated the decision-making process for teams. Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman-winning quarterback from Indiana, is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders, leaving other teams to weigh their options at other positions.