Just a week after competing for the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, Riley Leonard finds himself in Mobile, Alabama, ready to make a statement at the Senior Bowl. This prestigious event serves as a crucial platform for NFL prospects to showcase their skills in front of scouts and executives. With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, the pressure is on, but Leonard is prepared to shine.
Lessons from Legends
As he gears up for this pivotal moment in his career, Leonard reflects on the invaluable lessons he learned from legendary NFL quarterbacks Eli and Peyton Manning. These lessons extend beyond the field and into life, shaping Leonard into the player and person he is today.
Last June, Leonard had the unique opportunity to serve as a collegiate camp counselor at the Manning Passing Academy held at Nicholls State in Thibodaux, Louisiana. There, he roomed with fellow quarterbacks like Will Howard from Ohio State, Cade Klubnik from Clemson, and Tyler Van Dyke from Wisconsin. Not only did he bond with these talented players, but he also showcased his skills by winning the event’s “Air It Out” challenge, demonstrating his impressive throwing arm.
Impactful Experiences
Reflecting on his time at the camp, Leonard shared, “The biggest takeaway that I took was how intentional Peyton and Eli, who are all-time quarterbacks, were with every single kid at that camp.” He emphasized the dedication the Mannings showed, stating, “About 2,000 kids go to Thibodaux, Louisiana in the middle of the summer, the hottest weekend of the year, by far. And Peyton and Eli spend time with every single kid at that camp.” Their attention to detail, knowing the names of every waterboy and watergirl, left a lasting impression on him.
Leonard’s admiration for the Mannings goes beyond their football prowess. He draws inspiration from their humility and commitment to others. “It kind of reminds me of the Bible verse I wear on my wrist, Matthew 23:12, ‘Those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted.’” This philosophy resonates deeply with Leonard, who strives to embody these values both on and off the field.
Conversations with NFL Teams
While Leonard is making headlines, he’s not the only quarterback drawing attention at the Senior Bowl. Dillon Gabriel, the quarterback from Oregon, is also in Mobile, engaging with NFL teams about his future. The Senior Bowl provides a unique opportunity for players like Gabriel to connect with scouts and executives, discussing not just football but also their personal lives.
Gabriel shared his experience during Tuesday’s Senior Bowl practice, stating, “Yea, it’s been really great. Great conversations and something I’m extremely confident in.” He emphasized the importance of being authentic during these discussions. “You know, I’m confident in that, know what I represent, and every single day, with the lights on or off, I’m the same person. So I ain’t gotta be someone I’m not.” This level of self-assurance is crucial as players navigate the intense scrutiny of the draft process.
The Importance of the Senior Bowl
The Senior Bowl is more than just a showcase for individual talent; it’s a critical juncture for players aiming to elevate their draft stock. With NFL teams closely monitoring these practices, prospects have the chance to demonstrate their skills in game-like situations. For Leonard and Gabriel, this week is about seizing every opportunity to impress.
As teams evaluate their potential picks, they’re not just looking for physical skills. They want to understand the character and mindset of each player. This is where the experiences and lessons learned from mentors like the Mannings come into play. Both Leonard and Gabriel are eager to show that they possess not only the athletic ability but also the leadership qualities that NFL teams covet.
Looking Ahead
As the Senior Bowl progresses, all eyes will be on these quarterbacks and their performances. For Riley Leonard, it’s a chance to solidify his status as a top prospect and prove that he’s ready for the next level. Meanwhile, Dillon Gabriel is also making a name for himself, showcasing his skills and engaging in meaningful conversations with NFL teams.
With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Both players are determined to leave a lasting impression, not just for themselves but for their respective programs as well. The journey from college football to the NFL is filled with challenges, but for Leonard and Gabriel, the Senior Bowl represents a significant step toward achieving their dreams.
As fans and analysts alike eagerly await the draft, it’s clear that the future of college football is bright, with talented players like Riley Leonard and Dillon Gabriel leading the charge. The lessons learned, the experiences shared, and the moments created during this week will undoubtedly shape their paths in the world of professional football.
