Jeremiyah Love, the Arizona Cardinals' third overall draft pick, has officially signed his rookie contract, securing the largest amount of guaranteed money for any running back in NFL history. The deal, reported to be worth approximately $53 million in guarantees over four years with a fifth-year team option, was finalized on Friday, just before the start of the team's rookie minicamp.
Love, who recently turned 20 and left Notre Dame with a decorated collegiate career, was on the field for his first practice sessions with the Cardinals shortly after signing. His signing marks a significant moment, not only for him personally but also for the positional value of running backs in the league, a position that has seen a decrease in top-10 draft selections in recent years.
The former Notre Dame standout had an exceptional college career, setting records and leading the nation in rushing touchdowns and total offensive touchdowns in his final two seasons. His production included 40 touchdowns and 3,014 scrimmage yards with an impressive 7.2 yards per touch over his last two years at the FBS level. This performance led general manager Monti Ossenfort and rookie head coach Mike LaFleur to select him with such a high draft pick.
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Coach LaFleur, who has prior experience working with a promising rookie running back, expressed optimism about Love's fit into the Cardinals' offensive scheme. Love himself, acknowledging the weight of his new contract and expectations, stated his eagerness to "do right by them" and make a high-impact contribution. He is expected to assume a significant role in the Cardinals' offense from the outset of his professional career, joining a running back room that also includes James Conner and offseason acquisition Tyler Allgeier.
Love's entry into the NFL comes after a brief but impactful college tenure. He enrolled at Notre Dame at 17 and leaves at 20, having broken Jerome Bettis's record for rushing touchdowns at the university and establishing a separate Notre Dame record for rushing touchdowns in 13 consecutive games. The Cardinals' decision to exercise a fifth-year option on his contract means a decision on its extension will be made after his third season. The team aims to utilize Love's talents to help lift them from their recent performance in the league standings.
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