The Notre Dame Fighting Irish made a major impact during the first night of the 2026 NFL Draft as running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price both heard their names called. But while the program made history, Love carved out a milestone of his own.
Selected No. 3 overall by the Arizona Cardinals, Love is projected to sign a rookie contract worth more than $50 million. The deal would instantly place him among the NFL’s highest-paid running backs before taking a single snap. If the contract is fully guaranteed, Love would set a league record for guaranteed money for a running back. That would surpass the deals signed by stars like Saquon Barkley, who received $36 million guaranteed. Other stars, such as Derrick Henry and Christian McCaffrey, also secured around $24 million each.
Love’s projected deal would also surpass the contract signed by 2025 No. 6 overall pick Ashton Jeanty with the Las Vegas Raiders. This would put the former Notre Dame star in rare company from the moment he enters the league. The investment reflects how highly Arizona views Love after a dominant final season in South Bend.
He ranked among the nation’s top 10 rushers with 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns while averaging 6.9 yards per carry. He also added 27 receptions for 280 yards, finishing with 21 total touchdowns and showcasing his ability to impact the game as a true three-down back. With a record-setting contract likely on the way, the Cardinals are clearly betting Love can quickly emerge as one of the league’s top offensive playmakers.
JEREMIYAH LOVE IS THE LEAGUE'S HIGHEST-PAID RUNNING BACK 🤑He hasn't even taken a SINGLE SNAP - Love was drafted No. 3 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft 🤯(h/t Spotrac) pic.twitter.com/o3PswQc9LI
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This article originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire: Jeremiyah Love projected for massive NFL payday in first contract