Riley Leonard Signs Historic $5.7M Deal with Notre Dame for 2025 Heisman Campaign
South Bend, IN – January 2, 2025 – In an unexpected yet exhilarating move, Riley Leonard, the standout quarterback who led Duke to unprecedented heights in 2024, has officially signed a groundbreaking $5.7 million deal with Notre Dame for the 2025 college football season. The deal marks the beginning of Leonard’s quest for the 2025 Heisman Trophy as the Fighting Irish look to cement their position as a national powerhouse.
Leonard, who transferred from Duke to Notre Dame in a high-profile move this offseason, was one of the most dynamic and versatile quarterbacks in the country last year. Under his leadership, Duke achieved a program-best 10-win season, with Leonard putting up impressive numbers in both passing and rushing yards. His mobility, leadership, and clutch performances made him a household name, and now the Heisman hopeful is set to make an even bigger splash with the Fighting Irish.
The $5.7 million contract, which includes a combination of performance bonuses, brand partnerships, and NIL opportunities, is the largest in Notre Dame history and signals the university’s commitment to competing at the highest level. As part of the deal, Leonard will work closely with Notre Dame’s coaching staff, including head coach Marcus Freeman, and will take on a mentorship role, helping to develop the team’s future quarterbacks while also boosting the Fighting Irish’s national profile.
“This is an incredible opportunity for me, and I’m beyond excited to join such a storied program,” Leonard said in a statement. “Notre Dame’s tradition of excellence, combined with the chance to work with Coach Freeman and this talented roster, is everything I’ve been looking for. I’m here to win championships and compete for the Heisman, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Leonard’s addition to Notre Dame is a game-changer. With his dual-threat capabilities, Leonard brings a new dynamic to an offense that has historically relied on its strong running game and defense. His ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground gives the Fighting Irish a true weapon to challenge for the College Football Playoff and a potential national title.
As Leonard embarks on his Heisman campaign, all eyes will be on South Bend, where expectations are sky-high. With his natural talent, leadership, and the resources of Notre Dame behind him, Riley Leonard’s 2025 season is poised to be one of the most exciting in recent memory for both the Fighting Irish and the entire college football world.
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