Only three running backs have gone in the NFL Draft's top ten since 2017. Listening to one of those three rave about a tailback in the 2026 NFL Draft class, you're left with the sense there will soon be another.
Three-time All-Pro Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers' superstar running back, believes there's a player out of Notre Dame with the "extra juice" to make a real impact in the NFL.
Appearing on The Insiders, available to NFL Game Pass subscribers on DAZN, CMAC shared what he likes about Fighting Irish standout Jeremiyah Love.
The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off in Pittsburgh on 23 April, and you can watch every round live on DAZN with a Game Pass subscription.
From just £9.99/€9.99, witness the moment Fernando Mendoza, Jeremiyah Love and Carnell Tate hear their names called and walk onto the draft stage as the next generation of NFL superstars.
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"I've seen a bunch of him," McCaffrey began. "When you watch him move just at the Combine, you can tell he's such a great player."
"When you watch his tape, you find out that he kinda has that extra juice, that stuff that you can't really coach.
"That's the vision, that's the contact balance, and you can tell the way his teammates talk about him as well."
McCaffrey even has an inside line on Love's character off the field.
"I actually know his strength coach at Notre Dame really well, and he just raves about him," he added.
"He's a guy that I'm sure is going to have continued success for however long he wants to play."
McCaffrey is one of the most complete backs in NFL history, as likely to finish a game with 100 yards rushing as 100 yards receiving.
Asked whether Love could develop into the same kind of weapon out of the backfield, the 49ers star was unequivocal.
"He has the capability to do so," McCaffrey said.
"When you have the ability, and you pose that threat on defenses, it can really open a lot ... and he's somebody that can absolutely do that."
Love is projected to land in the top ten. His most likely destination is either the Tennessee Titans at No. 4 or the Commanders at No. 7.
One of 16 players confirmed to be attending the 2026 NFL Draft, Game Pass subscribers can tune into DAZN on 23 April to watch, live, where Love goes.