Recent mock drafts for the 2026 NFL Draft have the New Orleans Saints selecting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love with the eighth overall pick. This projection aims to bolster the Saints' rushing attack amid a post-Alvin Kamara future. Love's impressive college performance positions him as a potential generational talent.
The New Orleans Saints drafted quarterback Tyler Shough in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, where he took over as starter midway through the season and led the team to several victories, establishing himself as a potential franchise quarterback. To support Shough's development, the Saints need additional offensive weapons, including a young running back.
USA Today's Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz projected in his 2026 NFL mock draft that the Saints would use their No. 8 pick on Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love. "How fortunate New Orleans is to be able to consider what some might view as a luxury pick," Middlehurst-Schwartz wrote. "While there's certainly a question of resource allotment for the Saints, the rushing attack ranked 31st in expected points added per carry, according to Next Gen Stats, and should be contemplating a post-Alvin Kamara future. Even if he can't transcend the limitations of his position, Love could change the complexion of a Saints offense that must discover more ways to be explosive in Year 2 for Kellen Moore."
NFL.com's three-round mock draft echoed this selection, projecting Love to the Saints at No. 8. In the 2025 season, Love rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns on 199 carries, while adding 27 receptions for 280 yards and three scores. His 21 total touchdowns set a Notre Dame single-season record. Love combines speed, power, vision, blocking ability, and pass-catching skills, with no major flaws noted in his game.
Pairing Love with veteran Alvin Kamara could provide an immediate boost, allowing the two to share the backfield for one or two years before Love assumes a lead role. While running backs are often available later in drafts or via free agency, Love's status as a top prospect makes him a compelling choice at No. 8.
