An interesting topic being discussed in Minnesota Vikings circles is whether the team will keep both running backs, Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason, or move on from one of them.
Since Jones is older and in the final year of his contract, he has been a popular cut candidate for the Vikings since the team could save $8 million if they cut him before March 15 and $6 million if they cut him after that date, but could also gain $10 million in cap space if they trade him before June 1. With Jones being a target to move this offseason, NFL analyst Charles Davis shared his first mock draft of the year as he likes the Vikings selecting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.
"Are teams undervaluing the running back position again? The Vikings cannot pass on a top-three talent in this year’s draft. Head coach Kevin O'Connell will find plenty of plays for him."
The Minnesota Vikings could replace Aaron Jones with Jeremiyah Love
Love was an incredible running back in college with the Fighting Irish, as he has gone back-to-back seasons with over 1,000 yards rushing. Last season was the best of his career as he went for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns, finishing third in the Heisman voting and being named an All-American.
It was always destined that Love was going to be a first-round pick in the NFL and is highly regarded as the top back in the NFL Draft. This year, the running back position feels as though it's being slept on a bit, which could be a massive advantage for the Vikings.
Minnesota needs more out of their backfield as they were just 23rd in rushing last year with 108.3 yards per game. Mason and Jones had some nice moments, but neither guy really dominated in the backfield, as they are not the explosive big-play players they need out of the backfield. To be fair to them, too, the offensive line dealt with multiple injuries throughout the year, so it was hard for them to get going.
Love is definitely one of those guys who offenses build around to touch the ball at least 25-30 times a game, whether that's running or catching the ball. He has a dynamic aspect to his game that makes him dangerous when he's got the ball in his hands.
Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy could use all the help he can get on offense, and Love is the guy who can change the course of the offense in 2026.