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The Dallas Cowboys haven't had a true workhorse running back since Ezekiel Elliott's prime years. But according to early 2026 NFL mock drafts, the wait for the next RB1 in Big D could soon be over. Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love, one of the most dynamic backs in college football, is turning heads across the league, and multiple analysts are projecting him to Dallas in the first round.
Love exploded in his sophomore campaign with 1,125 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on just 163 carries. That's a staggering 6.9 yards per rush, proof of both his efficiency and explosiveness. He's not just fast; he's fearless. Whether it's breaking tackles in the trenches or slipping out for big gains in open space, Love plays with a rare blend of vision, speed, and power that has NFL scouts buzzing.
More than just a runner
In today's NFL, versatility is king, and Love fits the mold. He added 237 receiving yards on 28 catches last season, showing soft hands and reliable route running. He's not the type of back that needs to come off the field on third down. In fact, he might be the reason your offense stays on it.
That dual-threat ability is exactly what Dallas needs. With questions around their quarterback situation and a desire to return to a more balanced attack, adding a weapon like Love could reshape the team's identity.
Rising stock, growing buzz
Love's momentum isn't just a media creation. CBS Sports, WalterFootball, and The Athletic's Dane Brugler have all linked the Notre Dame standout to the Cowboys in their early mocks. Brugler even named him the only running back worthy of a first-round grade at this stage. Pro Football Focus backed it up with a 91.8 rushing grade for the 2024 season, one of the highest in the country.
Fans are already buying into the hype. Love's name is trending, jersey mockups are making the rounds, and Cowboys Nation is dreaming of No. 6 slicing through defenses at AT&T Stadium.
One more season to prove he's the one
Love still has another college season to play, and expectations are sky-high. With Notre Dame transitioning to a new quarterback, he'll likely carry the offensive load in 2025. If he thrives under the spotlight, don't be surprised if the Cowboys make him their next offensive cornerstone in April 2026.