Riley
Leonard

Riley capped a stellar college career by leading Notre Dame to the CFP National Championship game and one of the most historic campaigns in program history during his lone season in South Bend. He set a Notre Dame single-season record for rushing touchdowns (17), led the Irish to 13 straight victories, and secured three CFP playoff wins, including victories over Penn State in the Orange Bowl and Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. Riley was named Offensive MVP in both games. In the CFP final against Ohio State, he passed for a season-best 255 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions, finishing with 295 total yards of offense. Over the course of the season, Riley threw 21 touchdown passes, racked up nearly 3,000 passing yards and 900 rushing yards, and completed 67% of his passes.

He earned numerous national honors during the 2024 season, including Senior Bowl Offensive Player of the Week, Davey O’Brien “Great 8” QB of the Week, and Manning Award Star of the Week. He was also a finalist for Collegiate Man of the Year and a nominee for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. Elected team captain following his transfer from Duke, Riley continued to garner respect for his character and leadership both on and off the field. Prior to joining Notre Dame, he starred at Duke, leading the Blue Devils to an undefeated start in 2023, their highest national ranking since 1994 and their first-ever appearance on ESPN’s College GameDay. He earned widespread praise for his leadership, toughness, and skill—drawing multiple first-round NFL Draft projections before an injury shortened his season.

Riley’s junior year followed a breakout sophomore campaign, during which he earned All-ACC honors and was one of only two quarterbacks in the nation with 20+ passing touchdowns, 13+ rushing touchdowns, and at least 2,900 passing yards and 700 rushing yards. One of the most dynamic multi-sport prep athletes in Alabama history, Riley received Division I offers in both football and basketball during his time at Fairhope High School. He ultimately chose Duke after a dominant senior season in which he totaled 2,500 yards and 25 touchdowns.