© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
GLENDALE – In the weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, consensus often hardens into expectation. That’s why Peter Schrager’s late wildcard addition lands with weight. ESPN’s Peter Schrager believes that the Cardinals will most likely be opting into drafting Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese, though added in a wildcard draft pick, which was Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.
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Nov 22, 2025; South Bend, Indiana, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Love (4)runs the ball against the Syracuse Orange during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael Caterina-Imagn Images
On paper, drafting a running back third overall feels inefficient as the Cardinals already recommitted to James Conner and added Tyler Allgeier on a two-year, $12.25 million deal. Arizona’s quarterback room, which features Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew, doesn’t scream vertical explosiveness. That’s where Love could enter the equation and bring a whole different dynamic to Arizona’s offense. With the future of both Conner and Allgeier in question, Love could also be the Cardinals’ RB of the future.
Arizona running back James Conner (6) breaks out of the backfield against the Carolina Panthers at State Farm Stadium on Sept 14, 2025. Syndication: Arizona Republic
Love isn’t just depth; it’s multiplicity. At Notre Dame, his yards-after-contact rate and explosive play percentage both ranked among the nation’s best, metrics that translate directly to easing quarterback burden. Pairing him with Conner creates a dual-threat backfield capable of dictating tempo, controlling possession, and manufacturing offense without elite quarterback play.
Notre Dame running back Love (4) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown in the first half of a NCAA football game against Syracuse at Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, in South Bend. © MICHAEL CLUBB/SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
For Cards fans, this isn’t about drafting a position; it’s about drafting identity. A Love-Conner tandem for the time being could anchor a top-10 rushing attack, shorten games, and keep Arizona competitive while it searches for its long-term answer under center. Safe picks maintain rosters, but wild cards can redefine them. If Arizona leans into Love, it’s not reaching; it’s committing to a vision where offense flows through physicality, not uncertainty.
Why does ESPN believe one 2026 NFL Draft prospect is destined for the Arizona Cardinals?
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
