A new Notre Dame era begins as Jeremiyah Love makes long-awaited announcement

With Notre Dame opting out of the bowl system and being snubbed by the CFP committee, there was really only one thing Fighting Irish fans were waiting for. Would Jeremiyah Love come back for one more season, or would he head off to the NFL? While most knew the answer, the star running back made it official on Tuesday night.

Love took to his Instagram stories to announce he was leaving the Irish and going to the NFL. It was something he'd hinted at in recent days but had said he wanted to talk to his family and others before finalizing anything. Now that he's officially declared, he's a sure first-round pick and could be inside the Top 10 selections.

"Those who know me best know I’m very direct, so I am going to get straight to the point and share that I have made the decision to declare for the NFL Draft," the Notre Dame star wrote on the Instagram post.

Jeremiyah Love announces he's leaving Notre Dame and entering the NFL Draft

"Heading off to college, there are many uncertainties, but I knew Notre Dame was the perfect home for me. When I think about all of the people who have impacted me at Notre Dame, it is endless. I am especially grateful to my coaches for pushing me outside of my comfort zone, while also allowing me to be me. They knew exactly what I needed to do to elevate and made sure to push me to greater heights."

"To my teammates, my brothers for life. Competing together with you on the field was an unforgettable experience. We did some pretty great things! But what I will keep with me forever are the memories we made in the locker room and just hanging out at the Gug."

"Making the decision to attend Notre Dame was easy because of the people. From the amazing football support staff, to my fellow students—I could not have picked a better place for me to grow into the man I am today."

"It is with a wealth of gratitude, I will take the many experiences Notre Dame has given me and apply those lessons learned as I move onto the next level. I look forward to representing my family and Notre Dame in the NFL."

One of the best players to ever come through Notre Dame ended the post as only a Fighting Irish great could do. "Love Thee, Jeremiyah Love."