Riley Leonard’s journey from college football stardom to the NFL has captivated fans and analysts alike. After a remarkable season at Notre Dame, Leonard now dons the blue and white as a quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts. His selection in the sixth round of the NFL Draft marks a new chapter not just for Leonard but also for a Colts franchise in the midst of change.

A College Career Packed with Promise

During his time at both Duke and Notre Dame, Riley Leonard distinguished himself as a dual-threat quarterback. He threw for over 7,000 yards, tallied 45 touchdowns, and ran for an impressive 2,130 yards coupled with 36 rushing touchdowns. His leadership guided Notre Dame all the way to the national title game, cementing his reputation as a player who thrives under pressure.

His offensive prowess was recognized with MVP awards in major bowl games, and his ability to extend plays with his mobility set him apart. For a deeper dive into Leonard's college achievements and what made him stand out to scouts, check out ESPN’s recap of the Colts’ decision to draft Leonard.

The Road to Indianapolis

The 2025 NFL Draft witnessed the Colts making strategic moves to address their quarterback situation, with Riley Leonard becoming a key part of their future plans. Although the Colts already have Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones on the roster, General Manager Chris Ballard saw unique value in Leonard’s toughness, intelligence, and preparation. His competitive spirit and ability to adapt quickly may give him an early edge as a reliable backup and potential starter down the line.

These moves highlight the Colts' intent to build a competitive quarterback room. Learn more about the Colts’ recent draft strategies and their future picks in this Colts.com analysis.

What Riley Leonard Brings to the Colts

Riley Leonard is not regarded as having the strongest arm among incoming quarterbacks, but his decision-making, mobility, and resilience make him a strong fit for the Colts’ scheme. He’s known for extending plays, making the right reads under pressure, and staying composed in high-stakes situations.

Colts fans can anticipate a quarterback battle in training camp, as both Daniel Jones and Anthony Richardson are expected to compete for the starting role. In the meantime, Leonard’s versatility and dedication will push the team forward. For further insights into how Leonard fits into the Colts’ quarterback rotation, see NBC Sports’ coverage.

Looking Ahead

Riley Leonard’s arrival in Indianapolis offers promise for the Colts’ quarterback depth and future planning. Whether he takes the field as a starter, backup, or developmental player, Leonard’s track record suggests he is ready to meet the challenges of the NFL head-on. Fans should keep a close eye on training camp and the preseason to see how Leonard adapts to his new environment.

In summary, Riley Leonard’s move to the Colts puts another talented and disciplined quarterback in the team’s arsenal. His growth will be one of the most intriguing storylines in the coming NFL season.