The Colts draft a QB! Riley Leonard from Notre Dame in the 6th round
In a move that has captured the attention of both Colts fans and the broader NFL community, the Indianapolis Colts selected quarterback Riley Leonard from Notre Dame in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, with the 189th overall pick. This selection marks a significant step in the Colts’ ongoing efforts to solidify their quarterback position and build a team capable of competing at the highest levels.One Foot Down
Riley Leonard’s journey to the NFL is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. Starting his collegiate career at Duke, Leonard showcased his dual-threat capabilities over three seasons, accumulating over 6,000 passing yards and 34 rushing touchdowns. His transfer to Notre Dame in 2024 proved to be a pivotal decision, as he led the Fighting Irish to a College Football Playoff National Championship appearance, earning Offensive MVP honors in both the Sugar Bowl and Orange Bowl. ssn-sports.comOne Foot Down
During his lone season at Notre Dame, Leonard passed for 2,861 yards and 21 touchdowns, while rushing for 906 yards and 17 touchdowns. His 230 total points ranked second in single-season Notre Dame history and seventh among FBS players in 2024. Notably, he broke the school record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback, highlighting his unique skill set and versatility. One Foot Down
Strengths:
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Athleticism and Mobility: Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 216 pounds, Leonard possesses the physical attributes of a traditional pocket passer. However, his athleticism sets him apart, allowing him to extend plays and contribute significantly in the running game. His deceptive speed and ability to pick up first downs with his legs make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. ssn-sports.com
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Arm Talent: Leonard has demonstrated the ability to drive the football between the hashes and deliver deep passes with good timing, touch, and ball placement. His arm strength is sufficient for NFL throws, and he has shown proficiency in layering passes over underneath defenders against zone coverages. Chat Sports+1ssn-sports.com+1
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Football IQ and Leadership: As a team captain at Notre Dame, Leonard exhibited strong leadership qualities and a deep understanding of the game. His decision-making and awareness are advanced for his age, allowing him to process multiple reads and find open targets. These attributes suggest he can adapt to the complexities of the NFL offense. ssn-sports.com
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Inconsistent Mechanics: Leonard’s lower body mechanics can be inconsistent, affecting his accuracy, especially on deeper throws. He often struggles to set his lower body to drive deeper throws, leading to inaccuracies. Chat Sports+1Footballguys.com+1Footballguys.com
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Pocket Presence: While Leonard is effective on the move, he can sometimes appear uncomfortable throwing from the pocket, with poor ball placement and field vision. Improving his comfort and decision-making within the pocket will be crucial for his development at the NFL level. WalterFootball
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Limited Tight-Window Throws: At Notre Dame, Leonard rarely faced situations requiring tight-window throws, which are common in the NFL. His ability to make these throws under pressure will be a key area of focus as he transitions to the professional level. Footballguys.com
The Colts’ selection of Leonard aligns with their strategic vision of developing a quarterback who can thrive in a system that emphasizes mobility and adaptability. Leonard’s dual-threat capabilities make him an ideal candidate for an offense that incorporates read-option and play-action elements. His ability to extend plays and make decisions on the move can add a dynamic dimension to the Colts’ offensive scheme.ssn-sports.com
While Leonard may not immediately challenge for the starting role, his development under the guidance of the Colts’ coaching staff could position him as a valuable asset in the future. His work ethic, leadership, and football intelligence suggest he has the potential to evolve into a starting quarterback in the NFL.
As Riley Leonard embarks on his professional career with the Indianapolis Colts, the expectations will be tempered with an understanding of the developmental journey ahead. His selection in the sixth round reflects his potential and the Colts’ belief in his ability to grow into the role. With the right coaching and experience, Leonard has the tools to make a significant impact in the NFL.
For Colts fans, the arrival of Leonard signifies a new chapter in the team’s quarterback history. While the immediate future may see him acclimating to the professional environment, the long-term outlook holds promise for a quarterback who embodies the qualities of leadership, athleticism, and resilience.
In conclusion, Riley Leonard’s selection by the Indianapolis Colts is a strategic move that reflects the team’s commitment to building a competitive and dynamic roster. As he develops and refines his skills, Leonard has the opportunity to become a cornerstone of the Colts’ future success.
