In an enormous, yet expected move, Duke quarterback Riley Leonard has officially announced his intention to transfer to Notre Dame.
The news comes as no surprise, as Leonard had long been considered the top target for the Irish … With Sam Hartman set to depart South Bend, Leonard figures to be the perfect replacement.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Fighting Irish family. It’s a dream come true for me,” Leonard said of his decision.
A dream come true. Go Irish ☘️ pic.twitter.com/2Ft09Ho4uj
— Riley Leonard (@rileyleonard13_) December 12, 2023
What makes this acquisition even more special is Leonard’s immediate eligibility to play for Notre Dame in what will be his final year of college football.
Leonard’s decision to join Notre Dame was influenced by a strong family connection. His great-grandfather, James E. Curran, was a former football player for the Fighting Irish and a member of the Class of 1940.
Despite growing up in Alabama, Leonard’s allegiance to Notre Dame was deep-rooted, with his favorite movie being the iconic “Rudy.”
Notre Dame going from Wake Forest transfer QB Sam Hartman to Duke transfer QB Riley Leonard: pic.twitter.com/CW4fGwpyaG
— The Walmart Wolverine (@TheWalMartWolv) December 12, 2023
The talented quarterback, known for his dual-threat capabilities, is expected to step into the starting role immediately, given the departure of Hartman and the overall lack of experience in the current quarterback lineup.
Leonard and his Blue Devils seemed to be on their way to an impactful season before injuries derailed Riley’s season.
In his 21 starts at Duke, Leonard was 13-8 while throwing for 4,450 yards and 24 touchdowns. He also added 1,224 rushing yards, and 19 rushing touchdowns over his career, averaging an impressive 5.3 yards per carry.
Notre Dame stealing from the ACC. Great tradition
— Keith Focht (@dredchupacabra) December 12, 2023
One lingering question surrounds Leonard’s targets at Notre Dame, as the wide receiver unit has been a program weakness in recent years.
Head coach Marcus Freeman and the Irish made strides to address this issue by securing commitments from top wide receivers Beaux Collins and Kris Mitchell via the NCAA transfer portal.
Talent is not an issue with Leonard. He’s expected to enter the 2024 season as a legitimate Heisman Trophy contender.
Duke QB Riley Leonard is getting some offseason hype. Clemson’s defense will need to be well prepared for the opener. pic.twitter.com/c3EYyqW8j3
— Clemson Highlights (@ClemsonRT) July 4, 2023
With the Playoff field (finally) expanding to 12-teams, don’t be surprised if Leonard leads the Irish to a Playoff berth.
What are your thoughts on Leonard’s decision to transfer to Notre Dame?
A lot can (and will) happen between now and next season, but do you think the Irish will be realistic national title contenders in 2024?
Should Leonard be considered an early Heisman Trophy favorite???
