Overview
- Arizona running back Jeremiyah Love signed his four-year rookie contract Friday, a fully guaranteed $53.9 million deal with a standard fifth-year option that sets an NFL record for running back guarantees.
- The payout level comes from draft-slot economics, as first-round contracts are set by pick number rather than position, so the No. 3 slot drives the guarantee.
- After his first rookie minicamp practice, Love said he plans to save the salary and live on endorsement income from college name, image and likeness deals.
- Coaches describe a seamless fit in Mike LaFleur’s offense, highlighting Love’s work as a runner, receiver, and pass protector and signaling an immediate role.
- The selection and cost drew scrutiny given Arizona’s 3-14 season and a backfield with James Conner, Trey Benson, and Tyler Allgeier, even as Love arrives as a Doak Walker winner and the highest-drafted RB since Saquon Barkley in 2018.