Why Jeremiyah Love is emerging as a surprise top five pick in the 2026 NFL Draft

That framing matters. Teams are not discussing Love as a luxury pick, they are discussing him as a priority option even when other premium positions are available. For a running back to generate that kind of reaction inside a front office, he has to be viewed as more than just productive.

He combines elite burst, receiving ability and pass protection in a way that fits how offenses are now built. He is not just a ball carrier, he is a three-down weapon who can stay on the field in any situation.

Why Jeremiyah Love fits modern NFL offenses

That projection becomes clearer when looking at how teams expect him to immediately change an offense, especially one built around a young quarterback.

“He’d be an additional weapon for Jayden Daniels, who’s coming off an injury-plagued season, and would end Washington’s running-back-by-committee approach,” Pauline continued.

“He has the potential to upgrade the offense instantly, but the Commanders can only get him if he makes it out of the top five,” he concluded.

That final point underlines his rise. The conversation is no longer about whether Love belongs in the first round, but whether any team picking outside the top five will even have the chance to draft him.

In a class lacking depth at quarterback and without many universally agreed elite prospects at other positions, Love stands out as one of the few players who combines production, versatility and a clean projection to the next level.

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