Fighting Irish’s 2026 Draft Prospect Wants to Play for the Steelers
The city of Pittsburgh is currently preparing to host the 2026 NFL Draft in April. The Steelers are looking to address needs at several positions. Pittsburgh has the 21st overall pick, and there’s a prospect who could fall to the Steelers at that 21st pick and make an immediate impact. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love has emerged as a top NFL Draft prospect.
CNBC's Alex Sherman recently interviewed Love. The Notre Dame star revealed that he grew up a Steelers fan. He remarked, “I was a big fan of Ben Roethlisberger.” He added, “I mean, the Steelers, they were my team. I was kinda just born into it. My mom and dad are Steelers fans, so it kinda just fell onto me.”
The Steelers currently have a talented running back room with Kenneth Gainwell, Jaylen Warren, and Kaleb Johnson. However, Gainwell is an upcoming free agent. Having another option for running back would be beneficial for Pittsburgh, even if Gainwell re-signs with the team. If Love is still available at 21, drafting him would be advantageous to the team. Notre Dame running back’s frame and skill set are different than some of the other running backs on the roster as he is six feet tall and weighs 214 pounds. The 20-year-old running back’s speed, versatility, and patience help make him an excellent player. He can align in the slot and run routes, and can spin and bounce off tacklers with ease. He’s also able to make big plays.
Love spent the last three seasons playing for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He had a stellar year in 2025. On October 20th, 2025, he was named the Associated Press National Player of the Week. He was named the Doak Walker National Running Back of the Week on October 21st, 2025. The 20-year-old running back won the Doak Walker Award, which is given to the country’s best college football running back. He also won Disney’s Wide World of Sports Spirit Award. The star running back received unanimous All-American honors. Love was even a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. In 2025, he registered 1,372 rushing yards, 18 rushing touchdowns, 27 receptions, 280 receiving yards, and three receiving touchdowns. Throughout his collegiate football career, the 20-year-old running back amassed 2,882 rushing yards, 36 rushing touchdowns, 63 receptions, 594 receiving yards, and six receiving touchdowns.
