Running back Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame is taking significant steps toward joining the Kansas City Chiefs, expressing his desire to collaborate with star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Love”s explosive skill set and impressive production during the 2025 NCAA College Football season make him a standout prospect. In just 12 games, he recorded nine carries of over 20 yards and averaged 6.9 yards per attempt, far exceeding the Chiefs” team performance in similar situations last season, where they managed only three runs over 20 yards in 17 games.
Love”s ability to consistently break away for big plays positions him as a potential game-changer in the Chiefs” backfield. He recently confirmed that he had formal discussions with team personnel at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. “It would mean everything to be paired with a great quarterback like him,” Love stated. “I feel like he”s one of the best quarterbacks to come through the game. He”s still got a lot to prove. But hey, it”s the NFL. I”d love to play with him.”
If both parties share mutual interest, Love”s talents could complement Mahomes” style well. He emphasized an often-overlooked aspect of his game: pass protection, which could prove crucial for a struggling offensive line. “I mean, nobody”s really beat me in blocking,” he noted. “I pretty much dominated everybody just trying to rush me. I feel like that”s underrated.”
Questions arise about whether the Chiefs might overlook Love in the upcoming NFL Draft. Former scout Bill Polian praised Love”s versatility, highlighting his ability to line up as a slot receiver, making him a dual-threat player. He also pointed out that Love leads all FBS running backs in significant play metrics, including back-to-back 90-plus-yard runs. This performance has solidified Love”s status as the top running back in the draft.
The Chiefs have been monitoring Love for 18 months, but they now face a decision on whether to draft him over more premium positions such as edge rusher. General Manager Brett Veach acknowledged the dilemma, stating, “Yeah, I mean, it”s a great question. And I think there”s the old-school. I mean, you”re always going to look at O-line, D-line; those positional values are there. You see them in free agency. But at the same time, arguably, some of the best players in this draft are maybe at non-premium positions, when you look at the linebacker, the running back, the safety.”
Additionally, the Chiefs may be evaluating their future options at tight end, turning their attention to Brent Kuntz, who showcased elite athleticism at the 2026 NFL Combine. Kuntz recorded impressive stats in college with 111 receptions for 1,407 yards and nine touchdowns over two seasons, earning All-American honors and the John Mackey Award in 2025. His skill set as a move/flex player could provide a valuable asset to the Chiefs, especially if the veteran tight end opts to retire.
