The Pittsburgh Steelers might be on the brink of a game-changing decision, and it’s one that could reshape their future. But here’s where it gets controversial: with Kenneth Gainwell potentially leaving via free agency, the Steelers are eyeing a top running back in the 2026 NFL Draft—specifically, Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love. Could this be the move that propels them back to the top, or is it a misstep in their rebuilding strategy? Let’s dive in.
In her latest mock draft for NFL.com, Cynthia Frelund predicts the Steelers will snag Love with the 21st overall pick. She boldly compares his potential impact to that of Bijan Robinson, highlighting his dual-threat abilities in both the run and pass game. ‘For him to shine as a rookie, he’ll need a solid offensive line to help him adjust to the NFL’s speed and complexity,’ Frelund notes. Interestingly, she ranked Pittsburgh’s O-line as the 10th best last season—a promising sign for Love’s potential success.
And this is the part most people miss: the Steelers drafted a running back in the first round just five years ago with Najee Harris. While Love’s talent is undeniable, is another Day 1 RB the best use of their resources under new head coach Mike McCarthy? It’s a question that sparks debate among fans and analysts alike.
Love’s college career speaks for itself. After a solid freshman season with 385 rushing yards and a touchdown in 2023, he exploded in 2024, racking up 1,125 yards and 17 touchdowns as Notre Dame marched to the College Football Playoff National Championship. Though they fell to Ohio State, Love solidified his status as a top prospect. This past season, he took it even further, finishing with 1,372 rushing yards, 280 receiving yards, and 21 total touchdowns—earning him a third-place finish in the Heisman Trophy race.
But would Love be the right fit for Pittsburgh? Gainwell’s future with the team is uncertain after a career year where he tallied 1,023 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns. If the Steelers let him walk, they’ll need to bolster their backfield, though 2025 third-round pick Kaleb Johnson could also step into a larger role. Love’s dynamic skill set—quickness, patience, and receiving ability—makes him a big-play threat, but the Steelers’ most pressing needs are at wide receiver and defensive back. While Love would undoubtedly add excitement, is he the best use of their first-round pick?
Here’s the controversial take: Love’s addition would be thrilling, but it might not address Pittsburgh’s most urgent roster gaps. Should the Steelers prioritize a receiver or defensive back instead? Or is Love’s talent too good to pass up? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
For more insights and updates on the Steelers, subscribe to our FREE Newsletter (https://www.si.com/nfl/steelers/onsi/newsletter) and stay ahead of the game.
