NFL scout gets Cardinals’ pick of Jeremiyah Love: ‘They’ll be fine’

The Arizona Cardinals really got the 2026 NFL Draft buzzing with their pick of running back Jeremiyah Love at No. 3 overall.

It was a polarizing pick, with opinions quickly flooding in on whether he warranted a top-three pick (and the contract attached to it) or the Cardinals were simply blinded by the draft’s shiny object.

One AFC scout, however, understands the reasoning behind Arizona’s decision. And he didn’t waste words explaining why in ESPN analyst Jeremy Fowler’s deeper dive into the draft with the help of coaches, executives and scouts.

Love’s presence made going offensive line in Round 2 more sensible, thus making a path to Simpson unclear — and widening the path for (Carson Beck) in the third. A few scouts we talked to were supportive of the Love pick. “He’s the best player in the draft and the team sucks and needs excitement,” an AFC scout said. “I get it. They’ll be fine.”

Love instantly shoots up the depth chart as Arizona’s likely RB1 before even taking a snap.

The feeling is similar from a financial standpoint, too, with Love already the highest-paid running back from a guaranteed money standpoint ($50.1 million). Again, no reps registered.

For the talk surrounding his price tag, Love presents an electrifying offensive weapon who can impact the game on the ground or as a pass catcher for first-year head coach Mike LaFleur. The running back also enjoys getting after it in pass protection.

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman called Love a “unicorn” while talking with Arizona Sports’ Bickley & Marotta on Wednesday.

"His play speaks for itself." 🦄

The Cardinals are getting a unicorn in RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman told @Bickley_Marotta this morning.

Read more: https://t.co/Oa654NSHMJ pic.twitter.com/aoO2Bq5DRK

— Arizona Sports (@AZSports) April 29, 2026

Based on his college tape and how he holds himself off the field, the shoe fits.

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