Notre Dame Star RB Jeremiah Love Stuns College Football World by Turning Down Georgia’s $4.5M NIL Offer: “I Have No Plans Other Than to Become a Dame”
In a bold and refreshing move that’s sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, Notre Dame star running back Jeremiah Love has turned down a jaw-dropping $4.5 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) offer from the University of Georgia to stay with the Fighting Irish. The decision, in an era increasingly dominated by lucrative deals and transfer portal frenzy, is being hailed as one of the most loyal and passionate gestures in recent college football memory.
Love, a sophomore phenom who exploded onto the national stage with a breakout 2024 season, rushed for over 1,300 yards and 14 touchdowns while averaging nearly 6.5 yards per carry. His electrifying style, vision, and speed have made him one of the most coveted backs in the country—and a household name among NFL scouts.
But when Georgia came knocking with what sources confirm was a record-setting $4.5 million NIL package, many believed Love would join the ranks of athletes cashing in big. Instead, he doubled down on his commitment to Notre Dame and sent a message that resonated beyond dollars.
“I have no plans other than to become a Dame,” Love said in a video posted to his social media channels Tuesday morning. “This is bigger than money. It’s about legacy. It’s about faith, family, and finishing what I started here in South Bend.”
Love’s decision immediately sparked reactions from across the sports world. Former Notre Dame stars, current NFL players, and media analysts praised the running back’s maturity and loyalty.
“Jeremiah Love just reminded everyone what college football is supposed to be about,” said ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit. “He’s a special player—and an even more special person.”
The University of Georgia, a powerhouse program with two national championships in the last five years, has been aggressive in its NIL strategy to reload talent. Their offer to Love was seen by many insiders as a game-changer—until it wasn’t.
Instead, Love’s return cements Notre Dame’s 2025 national title hopes. With quarterback CJ Carr expected to take a sophomore leap and head coach Marcus Freeman continuing to build a culture rooted in tradition and discipline, Love’s presence in the backfield makes the Irish instant contenders.
“It would’ve been easy to leave,” Love acknowledged. “But I believe in Coach Freeman, I believe in my brothers, and I believe in what we’re building here. This is home.”
The move also puts pressure on the NCAA and college football’s broader NIL environment. While players now rightfully have the ability to profit from their talents, Love’s decision adds nuance to the conversation—proving that for some, loyalty and legacy still outweigh the paycheck.
As the 2025 season approaches, Jeremiah Love has already made his mark. Not just with his highlight-reel runs, but with a stand that echoes far beyond the gridiron.
And if his message wasn’t clear enough? He ended his video with a confident smile and four simple words:
“Go Irish. Forever Irish.”