Riley Leonard’s journey from Duke to Notre Dame has been nothing short of remarkable. After transferring to the Fighting Irish following the 2023 season, Leonard has quickly made a name for himself as a standout quarterback. With a stellar 12-1 record through 13 games as the starter, he has not only led his team to a first-round victory over Indiana in the College Football Playoff but has also showcased his dual-threat capabilities that have left fans and analysts buzzing.
Leonard’s Impact on the Irish Offense
Leonard’s contributions to the Notre Dame offense have been vital. He has thrown for an impressive 2,293 yards, racking up 17 passing touchdowns against just six interceptions. But that’s not all—he has also rushed for 15 touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility and ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground. This dual-threat capability has made him one of the most effective quarterbacks in college football during the 2024 season.
Of course, Leonard isn’t the only reason for Notre Dame’s success. The team’s defense has been formidable, providing crucial support throughout the season. However, it’s Leonard’s leadership and skill that have really shone through, making him a crucial component of the Irish’s playoff run.
What Lies Ahead for Leonard?
As Leonard approaches the end of his senior season, the question on everyone’s mind is: What’s next? With collegiate eligibility running out, could he hear his name called in the 2025 NFL Draft? His impressive performance has certainly put him on the radar, but the landscape of quarterback prospects is competitive.
Leonard’s name may not be at the top of every draft board, but his performance has certainly earned him a place in discussions about the upcoming draft. While he has shown he can perform at a high level, the question remains whether NFL teams will view him as a starter or a developmental prospect.
Leonard’s Draft Projection
Despite his impressive stats, Leonard is not currently considered a top-tier quarterback prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. In the latest draft big board, he doesn’t make an appearance among the elite. Instead, he finds himself in a crowded field, with eight quarterbacks making the list. Notably, both Penn State’s Drew Allar and LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier have opted to return to school, which could impact Leonard’s draft stock positively.
Leonard’s ranking varies among different draft boards. The NFL Mock Draft Database currently lists him as the No. 173 overall prospect, projecting him as a sixth-round pick. While he could certainly hear his name called on draft day, it’s likely that it won’t happen in the early rounds.
Comparing Leonard to Other QB Prospects
So, how does Leonard stack up against other quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft? According to various rankings, here are some of the top quarterbacks to watch:
| Rank | QB | School | Overall rank |
| 1 | Shedeur Sanders | Colorado | 8 |
| 2 | Cam Ward | Miami | 9 |
| 3 | Jalen Milroe | Alabama | 18 |
| 4 | Quinn Ewers | Texas | 33 |
| 5 | Carson Beck | Georgia | 59 |
| 6 | Dillon Gabriel | Oregon | 100 |
The competition is fierce, but Leonard’s strong performance in the 2024 season could make him an intriguing option for teams looking for depth or a developmental quarterback. With other quarterbacks like Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart, Syracuse’s Kyle McCord, and Indiana’s Kurtis Rourke also in the mix, Leonard could find himself in a favorable position if teams are looking for a player with potential.
The Road Ahead for Notre Dame
As Notre Dame continues its playoff journey, all eyes will be on Leonard. Can he lead the Fighting Irish to further success? His ability to perform under pressure will be tested, and how he handles these high-stakes moments could significantly impact his draft stock.
In the world of college football, the narrative can change quickly. A strong playoff performance could elevate Leonard’s status, while a lackluster showing might leave him looking for opportunities in the later rounds. Regardless of what happens, one thing is clear: Riley Leonard has made a significant impact during his time at Notre Dame, and the football community will be watching closely as he navigates the path to the NFL.
With the draft just around the corner, the excitement is palpable. Will Leonard rise to the occasion? Only time will tell, but fans are eager to see how this talented quarterback’s story unfolds.
