Jeremiah Love Turns Down $4.5 Million NIL Offer from Georgia, Stays True to Notre Dame: “I Don’t Have Any Plans Other Than to Become a Dame”
In an era where Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals have reshaped the college football landscape, loyalty and legacy are often overshadowed by multi-million dollar contracts. But Notre Dame running back Jeremiah Love just rewrote the narrative. In a move that has stunned fans, analysts, and rival programs alike, Love reportedly turned down a staggering $4.5 million NIL offer from the University of Georgia to remain with the Fighting Irish.
The decision, announced during an impromptu media session after a spring workout in South Bend, sent shockwaves across the college football world.
“I don’t have any plans other than to become a Dame,” Love said with unwavering conviction. “This program shaped me. My heart is here, and no amount of money can change that.”
A Star in the Making
Jeremiah Love, a former five-star recruit out of St. Louis, Missouri, was one of the most explosive running backs in the country during the 2024 season. As a sophomore, he rushed for over 1,300 yards and 14 touchdowns while adding 400 yards receiving, establishing himself as a dual-threat back and a Heisman dark horse heading into 2025.
With his blend of blistering speed, vision, and physicality, Love drew comparisons to NFL stars like Alvin Kamara and Jahmyr Gibbs. As expected, top programs came calling — and none louder than Georgia, whose NIL collective reportedly offered him a $4.5 million package to transfer and suit up for the Bulldogs in 2025.
But Love had other ideas.
The Heart of Notre Dame
“Notre Dame is bigger than football,” Love said. “It’s about faith, brotherhood, tradition, and earning something that lasts longer than a check. I came here to build a legacy.”
Love’s loyalty has become a rallying cry for the Irish community. Social media lit up after his announcement, with fans, alumni, and fellow players praising his decision. Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, who has been a steady voice in an increasingly chaotic NIL environment, expressed his pride and admiration.
“Jeremiah is the epitome of what we want in this program,” Freeman said. “His commitment shows our young guys that there’s still power in loyalty, in faith, and in choosing legacy over luxury.”
A Moment Bigger Than Football
The timing of Love’s decision comes as the sport grapples with a rapidly shifting identity. NIL deals, transfer portal moves, and free agency-like mechanics have led to growing concerns about the commercialization of college football. Yet, Love’s choice cuts through the noise.
In an exclusive ESPN sit-down, Love expanded on the emotional aspect of his commitment: “My dad used to tell me, ‘Don’t chase money — chase purpose.’ And my purpose is here. I’ve got unfinished business in South Bend. I want a national title. I want to run out of that tunnel at Notre Dame Stadium with the gold helmet, knowing I gave everything to this school.”
Teammates React
His teammates were equally inspired. Senior linebacker JD Bertrand said, “It’s a powerful thing when your best player also has the best character. That decision gave our locker room goosebumps.”
Freshman QB CJ Carr, expected to be the team’s starter in 2025, added, “Jeremiah staying tells us that we’re chasing something special. He believes in us — in this team, this culture. And that belief is contagious.”
Georgia’s Bid: A Glimpse at the NIL Arms Race
While neither school officially confirmed the details, sources close to the situation say Georgia’s offer included multiple endorsement deals, guaranteed payments over 12 months, a luxury vehicle, and housing incentives. The pitch was polished, aggressive, and nearly impossible to ignore — but not for Love.
“Georgia’s a powerhouse, no doubt,” he said. “Coach Smart runs a great program. But this was never about switching jerseys. This is about finishing what I started.”
The Bulldogs, coming off another College Football Playoff appearance, were reportedly eager to land a high-profile back to fill the void left by an early NFL departure. Love’s refusal is a rare loss in the transfer game for Georgia, who have otherwise dominated the NIL era.
A Blueprint for the Future?
Notre Dame, which has taken a more restrained and values-based approach to NIL, views Love’s decision as a sign that its long-term strategy may be paying off.
“NIL is important, but identity matters more,” said Jack Swarbrick, Notre Dame’s outgoing athletic director. “Jeremiah’s loyalty proves that we can still win by being who we are.”
Recruiting analysts are already calling the moment a potential culture shift — one that could inspire other elite athletes to think twice before following the money.
“This was a statement,” said ESPN’s Tom Luginbill. “Jeremiah Love just told the college football world that legacy is not for sale.”
Looking Ahead
With Love returning, Notre Dame instantly cements itself as a top-five contender for the 2025 season. Paired with Carr at quarterback, an experienced offensive line, and a stout defense, the Irish now have the tools to make a legitimate run at the College Football Playoff.
But beyond wins and touchdowns, Jeremiah Love’s decision to stay in South Bend will be remembered for something greater: the choice to value purpose over price, heart over hype.
As Love summed it up in his closing words: “Money fades. Glory fades. But being part of something eternal? That’s priceless.”
Jeremiah Love may have just made the most valuable decision of his life — and it had nothing to do with dollars.
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