The Colts draft a QB! Riley Leonard from Notre Dame in the 6th round
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard in the sixth round with the 189th overall pick. This move adds a dynamic dual-threat quarterback to their roster, potentially complementing their existing quarterback lineup. Leonard’s selection marks the ninth time a Notre Dame player has been drafted by the Colts, joining former Fighting Irish standouts like Quenton Nelson and Spencer Shrader in Indianapolis .One Foot Down
Riley Leonard’s journey to the NFL is a testament to his resilience and adaptability. After transferring from Duke to Notre Dame, Leonard led the Fighting Irish to the College Football Playoff National Championship game in 2024. That season, he showcased his versatility by passing 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 .One Foot Down
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Dual-Threat Ability: Leonard is a legitimate dual-threat quarterback, capable of making plays both in the air and on the ground. His rushing prowess is particularly notable, as he is one of only two Power 4 quarterbacks in 2024 to pass for over 2,600 yards and rush for over 900 yards, placing him in elite company alongside NFL quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts .One Foot Down
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Quick Decision-Making: He demonstrates a high football IQ, swiftly progressing through his reads and making quick decisions. This ability allows him to effectively manage the tempo of the game and exploit defensive weaknesses .Steelers Depot+1Bleacher Report+1Bleacher Report
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Deep Ball Accuracy: Leonard exhibits impressive arm strength and touch on deep throws, placing passes over the correct shoulder to evade defenders. His deep ball accuracy can stretch defenses and create big-play opportunities .Bleacher Report+1Bleacher Report+1
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Inconsistent Mechanics: Leonard’s footwork and lower-body mechanics can be erratic, leading to inconsistent accuracy, especially on intermediate throws. Improving his mechanics will be crucial for his development at the NFL level .Bleacher Report+2Athlon Sports+2Athlon Sports+2
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Pressure Handling: Under duress, Leonard’s performance can waver. He sometimes struggles to maintain composure, leading to rushed throws or missed opportunities. Enhancing his ability to perform under pressure will be vital for his success in the league .Bleacher Report+5Athlon Sports+5Athlon Sports+5Athlon Sports+3Steelers Depot+3Bleacher Report+3
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One-Read Tendencies: At times, Leonard relies heavily on his initial read, which can limit his effectiveness against complex defenses. Developing the ability to process multiple options will be essential for his progression .
With the Colts’ current quarterback depth chart, Leonard is expected to serve as a developmental prospect. His dual-threat capabilities could make him a valuable asset in specific packages or as a backup quarterback. Under the guidance of the Colts’ coaching staff, Leonard has the potential to refine his skills and evolve into a starting quarterback in the NFL.
Riley Leonard’s selection by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2025 NFL Draft introduces a promising dual-threat quarterback to their roster. While there are areas for improvement, Leonard’s athleticism, decision-making, and deep-ball accuracy provide a solid foundation for his development in the NFL. With the right coaching and experience, he has the potential to become a significant contributor to the Colts’ future success.
