Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love and Head Coach Marcus Freeman Tease Future of Star Running Back After Doak Walker Award
For the first time in Notre Dame's history, a player has been awarded the Doak Walker Award as the nation's top running back. Jeremiyah Love brought home this prestigious honor on Friday night, just one day before attending the Heisman Trophy ceremony as a finalist. With the Fighting Irish's season concluded due to their decision not to participate in a bowl game, Love's college career may be coming to a close. However, his head coach, Marcus Freeman, humorously suggested he might attempt to persuade his star player to return for another year.
Freeman joined the College Football Awards show on ESPN following the announcement of Love's Doak Walker Award win. He emphasized the significance of the standout running back to the Notre Dame offense and the personal growth Love has demonstrated. Freeman then hinted at discussions regarding Love's future.
"I think it brings a lot of confidence to everyone in our program, knowing that when you have that guy on the field, you can give him the ball, and he can take it to the end zone in multiple ways," Freeman stated.
"I'm incredibly proud of him. The football player he's become is impressive, but more importantly, the man he's become. Now, I need to convince him to come back for one more year."
Jeremiyah Love: 'I Love Notre Dame So Much'
Jeremiyah Love became a pivotal figure in the Notre Dame offense, contributing to the team's 10-2 record in 2025. He demonstrated his versatility, rushing for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns on 199 carries while also catching 27 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns. His 21 total touchdowns set a new single-season program record, surpassing Jerome Bettis's mark.
However, Love is projected to be one of the top prospects in this year's NFL Draft. This potential transition to professional football might mark the end of his college career. Reflecting on his journey, Love acknowledged the significance of the past three years and the impending decision about his future.
"It's sad," Love expressed. "I love Notre Dame so much. Thinking about it, potentially my last time wearing the gold helmet, it's sad. I'll miss the moments this season when I got to wear that helmet and play with my teammates. It's a bittersweet feeling, but I'll cherish those memories. I'll focus on the positive aspects and move forward."
"I need to keep moving forward, prepare for the next step. It's sad to think that could be my last time wearing the gold helmet. I'll keep moving forward."
