Notre Dame’s Pro Day gives 16 seniors one more shot to impress NFL scouts
SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Only six Irish players received invites to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis last month, but Notre Dame’s Pro Day gave the rest of the draft hopefuls a chance to make their case ahead of April’s NFL draft.
The biggest name in attendance was running back Jeremiyah Love, who is projected by many as an early first-round pick. Love did not participate in drills after posting his testing numbers at the combine, but he still drew plenty of attention from scouts and team personnel.
Love said he briefly thought about returning to Notre Dame for another season, but ultimately knew it was time to move forward.
“I have to take care of my family first,” Love said.
Even without working out, Love made it clear he is aiming high at the next level.
“I tell them I want to be one of the best of all time,” Love said. “I wanna be a Hall of Famer. I wanna be a Pro Bowler my very first year, I want to win offensive rookie of the year. I tell them all of these goals that I have.”
On the field, wide receiver Will Pauling drew one of the loudest reactions of the day after posting a 4.37-second 40-yard dash. Teammates watching from above celebrated as his time went up.
Scouts also got a glimpse of Notre Dame’s future. Quarterback CJ Carr stepped in during throwing sessions and connected with targets including Malachi Fields, Eli Raridon and Jadarian Price.
For Price, the day was about showing versatility. The running back flashed his ability as a pass catcher out of the backfield while continuing to build momentum in the pre-draft process. Off the field, his stock also appeared to be gaining traction, with scouts and team representatives spending time evaluating his potential fit at the next level.
Love, meanwhile, stayed busy away from the drills. He was seen speaking with multiple NFL representatives, continuing the interview and relationship-building process that often becomes just as important as on-field testing this time of year.
Part of Love’s story heading into the draft remains his close bond with fellow running back Jadarian Price. Love said Price’s all-around skill set makes him one of the most complete players in the class.
“J can do as much as me or possibly more,” Love said. “You’re going to get everything you need in a football player and running back and receiver and a blocker. JD can do it all.”
Now, the standout backfield duo is preparing to turn the page to the NFL. Love acknowledged that his goals may sound lofty, but said he has a plan for how he wants to build his pro career. For now, his focus is on learning, making connections and staying true to himself as the next step approaches.
He said he will not consider himself successful until he reaches a third NFL contract and one day earns a gold jacket.