The Arizona Cardinals made a splash in the 2026 draft by selecting Jeremiyah Love as the highest‑running back chosen since 2018, handing him the third overall slot in the first round. The move has generated buzz across fantasy platforms, where he currently sits at an average draft position of No. 21 in PPR formats, sandwiched between veteran backs like Derrick Henry and emerging tight end Brock Bowers.
A Shared Load in Arizona
Head coach Mike LaFleur, in his first year at the helm, has emphasized a balanced backfield, promising to rotate Love with veterans James Conner and Tyler Allgeier to prevent over‑use early in his rookie campaign. LaFleur’s pedigree, forged under Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay, suggests a strategic approach to maximizing each player’s strengths.
Love’s skill set adds another layer of intrigue. Over the past two seasons at Notre Dame he recorded 55 receptions, showcasing a pass‑catching ability that aligns with the Cardinals’ up‑tempo, high‑scoring offense. The team’s schedule, projected to feature multiple shootouts, should create ample opportunities for all skill‑position players to contribute.
Fantasy Outlook
Analysts caution that Love’s upside hinges on touch volume. While the coaching staff envisions a workload near 300 carries, a more conservative estimate of 250 could temper his weekly ceiling. Nevertheless, his combination of rushing potential and receiving upside keeps him on the radar of dynasty leagues and deep‑bench formats.