Jeremiah Love Signs Record Rookie Contract

Even before stepping onto an NFL field, Jeremiah Love is already making waves and, well, drawing envy from seasoned running backs. The third overall pick in last month’s NFL Draft officially signed a rookie contract worth $53 million on Friday.

This deal marks the most guaranteed money ever given to a running back in NFL history. The previous record was held by Saquon Barkley, whose contract with the Philadelphia Eagles was $36 million in 2025. Just behind that, Ashton Giunty signed for $35.9 million as a rookie.

Love’s rise through the draft ranks was impressive, largely due to his standout performance at Notre Dame, where he rushed for 1,372 yards and scored 18 touchdowns last season. Notably, he topped 100 rushing yards in six out of fourteen games, including a staggering 228 yards against USC.

He has become the highest-drafted running back since New York Giants picked Barkley second overall in 2018. Now, Love is set to join a restructured Arizona Cardinals offense led by new head coach Mike LaFleur.

Interestingly, despite his newfound wealth, Love is choosing to be prudent with his finances. He mentioned, “I don’t use any NFL checks. All that money is going to be taken care of by my financial advisor. I think it’s important to keep that separate.” He intends to utilize his endorsement earnings instead, prioritizing his family over personal luxuries. “The first thing I might buy? A house for my parents and maybe a car for my father,” he shared. “I’ll put myself last.”

The running back market has been on a slow decline in recent years. However, it seems the front office is beginning to reconsider its approach in the offseason.

If Love doesn’t live up to the expectations tied to his hefty contract, it might influence how the organization views running back investments in the future.