Jeremiah Love’s Unwavering Loyalty to Notre Dame: Turning Down $4.5 Million NIL Deal from Georgia
In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, where financial incentives often sway decisions, Jeremiah Love’s commitment to Notre Dame stands as a testament to loyalty and integrity. Despite receiving a substantial $4.5 million Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer from the University of Georgia, Love chose to remain with the Fighting Irish, prioritizing personal values over financial gain.
Jeremiah Love hails from St. Louis, Missouri, where he attended Christian Brothers College High School. During his high school tenure, he showcased exceptional talent on the football field, amassing 1,291 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns in his senior year alone. His remarkable performance earned him a four-star ranking and attention from several top-tier college programs. Ultimately, Love committed to Notre Dame, a decision influenced by the institution’s academic prestige, football legacy, and the opportunity to develop under renowned coaching staff.
Upon joining Notre Dame in 2023, Love made an immediate impact. In his freshman season, he contributed significantly to the team’s success, rushing for 385 yards and a touchdown. His versatility was evident as he also recorded eight receptions for 77 yards and an additional touchdown. By his sophomore year in 2024, Love had become a cornerstone of the Fighting Irish offense, rushing for 1,125 yards and 17 touchdowns, while also adding 28 receptions for 237 yards and two touchdowns.
In the competitive world of college athletics, NIL deals have become a significant factor in recruitment and retention. In 2025, the University of Georgia extended a lucrative $4.5 million NIL offer to Love, aiming to entice him to transfer. This substantial sum underscored the Bulldogs’ recognition of Love’s potential and their desire to bolster their backfield with his talents.
Despite the allure of a multimillion-dollar deal, Love chose to remain at Notre Dame. His decision was rooted in a deep sense of loyalty to the institution, its coaching staff, and his teammates. Love expressed that his commitment to Notre Dame was not merely about football but also about the values and relationships he had cultivated during his time there. He emphasized the importance of honoring his initial commitment and the trust placed in him by the Notre Dame community.
Love’s decision reverberated beyond Notre Dame’s campus. In an era where financial incentives often dictate player movements, his choice highlighted the enduring significance of loyalty and personal integrity. It set a precedent for future recruits and current players, demonstrating that success is not solely measured by monetary gain but also by personal fulfillment and commitment to one’s chosen path.
Jeremiah Love’s journey from a promising high school athlete to a key figure at Notre Dame exemplifies the essence of collegiate athletics. His decision to decline a $4.5 million NIL offer from Georgia in favor of staying with the Fighting Irish underscores the importance of loyalty, integrity, and personal values in shaping the future of college football. Love’s story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that success is not solely defined by financial rewards but by the character and choices that define an individual.
