The New York Giants may very well select Notre Dame star running back Jeremiyah Love with the fifth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. One way or another, though, he'll have a massive impact on the organization's future, if recent intel from Adam Schefter of ESPN is any indication.
There's reportedly (and wittily) "a lot of love for Love," so much so that the Giants might not even get the chance to take him. The Arizona Cardinals are lurking at the No. 3 spot, with "growing chatter in league circles" connecting them to the 2025 Heisman Trophy finalist. While this scenario removes a shortlist option from the board, it could trigger a chain reaction that ultimately favors New York, as Schefter inadvertently highlighted.
Many expect the MetLife Stadium housemate Jets to choose either of this year's top edge rushers, David Bailey of Texas Tech or Ohio State's Arvell Reese. But if Arizona snags Love in an "early draft surprise," things get interesting, with the Giants marking a potential pivot point on April 23.
Giants might hold the keys to the 2026 NFL Draft amid 'growing' Cardinals-Jeremiyah Love buzz
With Love not available, Schefter throws out the idea of the Tennessee Titans calling Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles' name from the fourth slot. That leaves one of Bailey or Reese for grabs when the Giants are on the clock, which opens a Pandora's box of possibilities.
Do the Giants stick and come out with one of the premier prospects at a premium position? Coming out with Bailey or Reese would be a great outcome. However, there are several clubs with the means and need to make a move up for either of them; can New York capitalize?
Schefter identified the Dallas Cowboys, among others, as a team to watch on the trade market if Reese or Bailey fall. They have the ammunition to craft a compelling offer and pull off a rare swap between heated NFC East rivals. The Giants can continue stockpiling assets after acquiring a second top-10 pick from the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for disgruntled star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.
For what it's worth, the Cardinals signed tailback Tyler Allgeier to a two-year, $12.25 million contract in free agency this offseason. They also restructured veteran James Conners' deal instead of cutting him. So, perhaps Arizona's infatuation with Love is overstated — or an attempt to spark a bidding war in any trade back.
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