The Arizona Cardinals drafted a running back at No. 3 overall with the hope that Jeremiyah Love become the next Saquon Barkley?
Barkley was the last running back taken this high, going No. 2 overall in 2018, and he entered the league as a franchise-changing talent. Love steps into a similar spotlight after being selected by the Arizona Cardinals, a team in the middle of a rebuild and looking for a centerpiece.
And something is pretty clear: Love isn’t shying away from that responsibility. “As Spider-Man says – ‘With great power, comes great responsibility,'” he said during his introductory press conference, leaning into a mindset that reflects both confidence and awareness of what’s ahead.
The comparison isn’t far-fetched
At 6-foot, 212 pounds, Love brings a combination of size, explosiveness and versatility that made him one of the most coveted prospects in the 2026 draft. His final season at Notre Dame Fighting Irish backed that up statistically, with 1,372 rushing yards and 21 total touchdowns while leading the program to a 10-2 record.
Barkley‘s early success came from his ability to impact the game in multiple ways: as a runner, receiver and explosive playmaker. That’s exactly what Arizona believes Love can become. Head coach Mike LaFleur has emphasized the importance of generating explosive plays, and Love fits that philosophy.
“You’ve got to be able to score those tough touchdowns,” Love said, grouping himself with players like Barkley, Bijan Robinson and Ashton Jeanty. “I’m no different.” That confidence is part of what made him a top-three pick in an era where teams are typically hesitant to draft running backs early.
The situation is both promising and complicated
Arizona already has a crowded backfield with veterans like James Conner, Tyler Allgeier and Trey Benson. That could limit his early workload, but it also gives him time to develop without carrying the entire offense immediately. At the same time, the supporting cast is built to help him succeed. With targets like Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, defenses won’t be able to focus solely on stopping the run.
LaFleur pointed out that one of Love‘s strengths is the absence of clear weaknesses. He’s a runner and also a capable pass protector, a physical presence and a player willing to do the less visible work that keeps drives alive. That’s critical for a young running back trying to earn trust at the NFL level.
“I’m a football player at the end of the day,” he said, highlighting his willingness to block, hit and contribute in any role. That mindset, combined with his “Jeremonstar” alter ego, reflects a player who blends personality with physicality. So the path to become the next Barkley is there.
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