With Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt both on expiring contracts and set to hit free agency, the Kansas City Chiefs are expected to revamp the running back group this offseason. After going 6-11, they have the chance to do so in the 2026 NFL Draft with the No. 9 pick.
The Chiefs have been consistently linked to Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jeremiyah Love. In 2025, he rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns while hauling in 27 receptions for 280 yards and three touchdowns.
He's widely regarded as one of the top prospects available. Both ESPN's Mel Kiper and NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah have published mock drafts with Kansas City landing Love.
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However, after the NFL scouting combine, things may change. Love participated in just two on-field drills, finishing second among running backs in the 40-yard dash (4.36 seconds) and tied for third in the 10-yard split (1.55 seconds).
Following the impressive display of athleticism, NFL draft analyst Todd McShay shared an unfortunate update for any team without a top-five pick.
"I don't think Jeremiyah Love gets out of the top five, and it won't shock me if he's the third pick in this draft," McShay said on the "Up & Adams," hosted by Kay Adams.
The Chiefs' rushing attack struggled last season, ranking 25th in rushing yards per game (106.6). At 6-foot-0 and 212 pounds, Love could give them player expected to make an immediate impact.
He's already expressed excitement about potentially joining Kansas City, saying it would "be an honor" to play alongside Patrick Mahomes. However, McShay's prediction would put the Chiefs well out of contention for Love without trading up.