In order for a running back to be a top-five draft pick, the prospect must be special. Jeremiyah Love is.
The Bleacher Report Scouting Report grades the Notre Dame product as the incoming class’ second overall prospect regardless of position.
“Love is a dynamic and explosive running back who possesses the skill set to be a complete weapon in an NFL offense,” B/R scout Dame Parson wrote. “He combines home-run top-end speed with route-running and pass-catching ability to impact the offense in multiple ways.”
Running backs continue to be viewed as devalued despite everything that names such as Christian McCaffrey, Bijan Robinson and Saquon Barkley bring to the table. Not coincidentally, each of those mentioned was selected among the top eight picks of their respective draft class.
In Love’s case, an argument can be made that this year’s class isn’t quite as strong near the very top, which presents a great chance of him being a top-five choice. Two situations really make this specific prediction a strong likelihood.
First, the Tennessee Titans own the fourth overall pick. While Tony Pollard remains on the roster after another 1,000-yard campaign, Love offers more thanks to a complete skill set. New Titans head coach Robert Saleh saw what McCaffrey did for the San Francisco 49ers while serving as their defensive coordinator. Love can immediately take pressure off last year’s No. 1 overall pick, Cam Ward, as well.
If the Titans pass, the New York Giants should absolutely be in play for Love’s services. Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Cam Skattebo may already be rostered, but head coach John Harbaugh just came from the Baltimore Ravens, where he saw how Derrick Henry helped elevate that offense.
Love is a premium talent, with the potential to create a dynamic set of triplets alongside quarterback Jaxson Dart and wide receiver Malik Nabers.
A reason exists why the New Orleans Saints and Kansas City Chiefs made big investments in veteran running backs at the onset of free agency despite owning top-10 draft picks. They never expected Love to be available when they were on the clock.
