The Arizona Cardinals' running back room is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing stories of the 2026 offseason. After struggling to establish consistent production in 2025, the franchise has made aggressive moves to fortify the backfield. General Manager Monti Ossenfort has brought in seasoned veterans, but a strong internal voice within the team is reportedly advocating for drafting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love in the upcoming NFL Draft.
This development emerged in multiple recent reports, indicating a substantive conversation inside the Cardinals' war room as the draft approaches. The push for Love--likely a Day 3 selection based on current projections--adds a strategic wrinkle to the team's draft plans since Arizona has already signed two veteran backs in free agency.
The Cardinals secured former Pro Bowler Aaron Jones in free agency, bringing in a dynamic playmaker known for his ability to score and create explosiveness out of the backfield. Jones, at 31 years old and on a short-term deal, offers elite production but represents a near-term solution. Complementing him is Alexander Mattison, a powerful between-the-tackles runner who provides steady rotational value. Along with holdover Emari Demercado, the backfield appears crowded on paper.
So why is there an earnest push for another running back? The answer lies in the unique attributes Jeremiyah Love brings and the Cardinals' focus on building sustainable roster depth with an eye toward the future under the current leadership.
It is important to note that Arizona's current coaching staff differs from what some recent media reports have claimed. Head Coach Mike LaFleur leads the team, supported by Offensive Coordinator Nathaniel Hackett and Defensive Coordinator Nick Rallis, with Monti Ossenfort in his third year as General Manager.
Jeremiyah Love, a 6-foot, 212-pound runner from Notre Dame, is regarded as a versatile back with a blend of speed, size, and receiving prowess that fits well in today's NFL offenses. He posted a 4.45-second 40-yard dash at his pro day--demonstrating the breakaway speed that can turn routine check-downs into big plays. Despite seeing limited carries in college with 177 rushing attempts for 883 yards and 9 touchdowns, he complemented those with 24 receptions for 267 yards, showcasing his value as a multi-dimensional threat.
Love's playing style includes good vision and patience in finding running lanes, along with a smooth, gliding running style that aids his acceleration to the second level. While not a punishing runner, he displays toughness and the ability to absorb contact consistently, an important trait for NFL durability. His receiving skills out of the backfield are especially appealing, aligning with modern offenses' emphasis on versatile backs who can contribute as third-down and passing downs specialists.
This internal advocacy is reportedly coming from within the Cardinals' personnel and coaching discussions, though the identity of the proponents remains undisclosed. It might stem from scouts impressed during pre-draft evaluations, offensive staff envisioning schematic fits, or analytics personnel backing Love's efficiency metrics and potential value relative to his projected draft position. Regardless, it suggests Love's profile has sparked significant interest beyond routine evaluation.
For Arizona's front office, this situation crystallizes the classic draft-day balancing act: addressing pressing roster needs like edge rusher, cornerback, and offensive line, while capitalizing on available talent and value. Selecting a running back, especially a developmental prospect with intriguing traits like Love, could be seen as a luxury after free agency investments but also a savvy long-term move.
The NFL's devaluation of the running back position in free agency makes drafting talented backs on rookie contracts one of the most cost-effective strategies. If Love's internal grade substantially exceeds his Day 3 draft projection--say, rated a third-round talent available in the fifth or sixth round--the Cards stand to gain a valuable asset for the future. This aligns with the organization's "best player available" philosophy increasingly clashing with positional need, meaning Love's value could elevate him on Arizona's draft board.
The Cardinals, led by GM Monti Ossenfort, have demonstrated a clear commitment to maintaining a dynamic offense built around quarterback Kyler Murray. A young, explosive back like Love fits that vision by potentially emerging as a complementary weapon who can thrive in space and evolve behind veterans like Jones.
As the 2026 NFL Draft unfolds, the push to draft Jeremiyah Love underscores the complex multi-layered discussions and strategic decision-making inside Arizona's building. While the running back position looks addressed for the present, this internal advocacy signals the organization's deep and nuanced approach to roster construction -- blending immediate needs, value-based drafting, and future planning.
The final call on whether Love becomes a Cardinal will depend on whether this strong internal support can sway decisions amidst heavy needs on multiple fronts. Nonetheless, Love's candidacy confirms Arizona's draft evaluation process is rigorous, dynamic, and far from settled, even in areas they appeared set to skip.
In summary, the Cardinals appear positioned to combine veteran experience with promising youth at running back. Should Jeremiyah Love hear his name called in the NFL Draft, it will not only represent the fruition of strong internal advocacy but also a testament to Arizona's commitment to building a sustainable, multifaceted offense for the long haul.
