It’s mock draft season already? If you’re a Dallas Cowboys fan, you might want to start paying extra attention. The Cowboys are again making headlines—not for who they lost, but for who they might gain. And if things go their way in the 2026 NFL Draft, Notre Dame’s rising star Jeremiyah Love could be the newest name on the back of a navy blue and silver jersey. Let’s just say Ezekiel Elliott 2.0 might be loading.
Dallas Cowboys’ Next Big Thing in the Backfield
Let’s rewind to the glory days of Dallas’s ground game. When Elliott ran wild behind that monstrous offensive line, Cowboys fans were treated to first downs on demand and clock-chewing drives. But in recent years, that juice has faded. Tony Pollard showed flashes, but injuries and inconsistency left fans wondering who could be the next true RB1 in Big D.
Enter Love, Notre Dame’s explosive running back, with scouts, analysts, and mock drafters foaming at the mouth. In Max Dorsey’s latest three-round mock draft on College Sports Network, Love is projected to land in Dallas in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. And let’s be clear—this isn’t just a feel-good pick.
Love finished the 2024 season with a staggering 1,125 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on just 163 carries, averaging a mind-blowing 6.9 yards per tote. The kid’s not just efficient—he’s electric. Whether bouncing outside for a 40-yard sprint or bulldozing through defenders in short-yardage situations, Love brings a rare mix of power, speed, and agility that screams “franchise player.”
Beyond his rushing stats, Love showed real promise as a receiver, hauling 28 catches for 237 yards. That versatility is exactly what NFL coordinators dream about in today’s pass-heavy era. He’s not just a three-down back—he’s a stay-on-the-field-no-matter-what back. And for a Cowboys team looking to relieve pressure off their quarterback and establish a more dynamic offensive identity, this could be the perfect fit.
The Buzz Around Jeremiyah Love Is Getting Louder
And it’s not just College Sports Network talking. CBS Sports also projected Love to Dallas in their early 2026 mock draft, highlighting his ability to stretch the field and attack in multiple ways. The Athletic’s Dane Brugler, one of the most respected draft experts in the game, included Love as the only running back in his “way-too-early” first-round mock.
Bears – RB Jeremiyah Love
Rams – QB LaNorris SellersWay-Too-Early 2026 Mock Draft ⬇️https://t.co/sM4TnUGilV
— PFF (@PFF) May 6, 2025
Over at WalterFootball, draft analyst Charlie Campbell praised Love’s size, vision, and powerful lower body, even comparing his style to Nick Chubb’s. For context, Chubb has been one of the NFL’s most consistent backs over the last five years, known for his violent running style and workhorse mentality. If Love brings even half that production to the Cowboys, they win that pick.
Meanwhile, Pro Football Focus handed Love a jaw-dropping 91.8 rushing grade for the 2024 season, making him one of the most efficient backs in the country. What’s even scarier? He still has another college season left to boost his draft stock.
The Notre Dame product helped carry his team to the College Football Playoff National Championship, showcasing his talents under the brightest lights. He performed against elite defenses and showed poise, physicality, and breakaway burst in every big moment. He’s not just a highlight machine—he’s a gamer.
It’s not just analysts who are hyped. Fans are already envisioning No. 6 in the backfield, shaking defenders and scoring touchdowns in AT&T Stadium. From highlight reels going viral to fan pages already posting jersey mockups, the buzz is building—and it’s only May 2025.
KEEP READING: Notre Dame Football Top 10 Returning Players in 2025 Include Jeremiyah Love, Leonard Moore
Looking ahead to the 2025 college season, all eyes will be on Love. With Notre Dame breaking in a new quarterback, Love will be the heart and soul of the offense. Expect his usage to go up, especially when passing downs. NFL scouts will watch closely how he handles increased pressure and expanded responsibilities.
Dallas could have a bridge year in 2025. Depending on how the team performs, it may be in the perfect position to draft a top offensive weapon early in 2026. The Cowboys have always leaned on strong running games during their best years, whether it was Emmitt Smith, DeMarco Murray, or Zeke Elliott. Love could be next in line.
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