There has been a strong movement over the 10 to 15 years in the NFL to devalue running backs. While nearly every team would like to have a strong running game, the idea of using high draft picks on the ball carriers and paying them the big salaries that some of the other position players get is far from reality. One of the exceptions to that rule is Arizona Cardinals rookie Jeremiyah Love.
Arizona Cardinals rookie Jeremiyah Love plans on not touching any of the $53M+ rookie contract he just signed.
Love says he is in a good spot financially thanks to NIL and can put the money away @PHNX_Cardinals pic.twitter.com/5bZkPJup4R
— Bo Brack (@BoBrack) May 8, 2026
The Cardinals used the No. 3 pick in the NFL Draft to secure his services and he has already signed a four-year, $53.9 million contract. Love was clearly thrilled to sign his contract. He has no plans to spend any of the money at this point. He said he is in a comfortable position from the NIL money he earned during his college career at Notre Dame, and that will allow him to save the money that he will earn with the Cardinals.
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Love enjoyed two brilliant seasons with Notre Dame in 2024 and 2025 after getting a cup of coffee in 2023. He ran for 1,125 yards and 17 touchdowns while averaging 6.9 yards per carry during the 16 games he played in 2024. Love maintained that average last season while rushing for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns. He also demonstrated more than adequate hands as a pass catcher coming out of the backfield.
The Cardinals are desperate to find a running game after struggling badly in that area last season. Michael Carter was the team's leading ball carrier with a paltry 333 yards on 92 carries for 3.6 yards per carry. Emari Demercado was second on with 312 yards on 44 carries.
Love should be an immediate threat to approach the 1,000-yard mark and compete for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
There has been a strong movement over the 10 to 15 years in the NFL to devalue running backs. While nearly every team would like to have a strong running game, the idea of using high draft picks on the ball carriers and paying them the big salaries that some of the other position players get is far from reality.