NFL Combine 2026: Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love turns heads with blazing speed in 40-yard dash

The spotlight was firmly on Jeremiyah Love at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, and the Notre Dame star did not disappoint. Love came into Indianapolis as the clear best running back in the class, and he backed up the hype with a scorching performance in the 40-yard sprint that made him an even stronger candidate to be a top-10 choice.

With scouts, general managers and analysts watching closely. Love chose to compete on the biggest stage rather than wait for his pro day.

What is Jeremiyah Love’s 40-yard dash?

Love ran the 40-yard sprint in an amazing 4.36 seconds, which was the second-fastest speed for a running back at the 2026 NFL Combine. He reached the mark on his second try, showing off his amazing acceleration and top speed.



The performance placed him just behind Arkansas running back Mike Washington, who led the group with a 4.33. Still, Love’s time firmly positioned him among the fastest skill players in this year’s draft class.

Speed has never been in question for Love. On film at Notre Dame, he consistently outran defenders and broke away for long touchdown runs. In his final collegiate season, he totaled 1,372 rushing yards and 19 total touchdowns, combining power with explosive burst.

What does Jeremiyah Love’s combine performance mean for his draft stock?

Love arrived at the Combine with strong top-10 buzz, and his 4.36 only solidified that standing. For a projected first-round pick, participating in drills carries risk especially in events like the three-cone drill, which Love opted to skip. However, by running the 40 and excelling, he gave teams exactly what they wanted: confirmation of his elite athletic profile.

The Tennessee Titans, who hold the fourth overall pick, have been widely linked to Love. Reports suggest they view him as one of the best overall players in the class, regardless of position. With quarterback Will Ward facing heavy pressure behind an inconsistent offensive line last season, adding a dynamic playmaker like Love could instantly reshape their offense.

Other top-10 teams, including the New Orleans Saints and Kansas City Chiefs, are also expected to monitor his rise closely.

In a draft class where teams increasingly prioritize explosiveness, Love’s speed gives him a clear edge.

Top 5 fastest running back 40-yard dash times at the 2026 NFL Combine

Here are the five fastest official times among running backs in Indianapolis:

• Mike Washington (Arkansas) - 4.33 seconds
• Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame) - 4.36 seconds
• Demond Claiborne (Wake Forest) - 4.37 seconds
• Jam Miller (Alabama) - 4.42 seconds
• Eli Heidenreich (Navy) - 4.44 seconds

Saturday’s showcase reinforced why Love is considered the premier back in the 2026 class. By choosing to compete and delivering he may have taken a decisive step toward hearing his name called inside the top five on draft night.



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