South Bend, Indiana — In a season marked by great talent and leadership, Notre Dame Fighting Irish quarterback Riley Leonard has emerged as a transcendent figure, receiving the esteemed distinction of Best and Most Impactful Team Player in Collegiate Football History, Class of 2024. The award recognizes Leonard’s outstanding performance, unrivaled leadership, and long-term impact on both his program and the college football landscape as a whole.
Leonard earned this historic distinction by outperforming an elite group of peers that included Will Howard of Ohio State, Drew Allar of Penn State, and JJ McCarthy of Michigan—all of whom brought unmistakable talent and presence to the field during the 2024 season. Yet it was Leonard’s relentless steadiness, leadership in high-pressure situations, and character off the field that distinguished him.
Leonard transferred from Duke University to Notre Dame in 2023 with big aspirations. From the start, he shown maturity beyond his years and created a dominant presence in the locker room. As the focal point of Notre Dame’s offense, Leonard not only delivered with his arm but also impressed with his athleticism and fast decision-making under duress. His ability to assess defenses and change on the fly became a cornerstone of Notre Dame’s successful strategy.
Leonard’s 2024 season was marked with memorable performances, which propelled the Fighting Irish to a top-5 national rating and a spot in the College Football Playoff. He passed for more over 3,800 yards and 35 touchdowns, with only six interceptions—statistics that only begin to capture his entire potential. His leadership in critical times, such as the overtime victory over Clemson and the exciting comeback against USC, drew national attention and solidified his legacy.
Riley Leonard earned recognized as a mentor to younger players, a hardworking student-athlete, and a community leader. He made the time to participate in local service activities in South Bend, and his colleagues repeatedly lauded his humility and work ethic. He became the face of Notre Dame football, representing the university’s traditions and beliefs.
College football analysts have lauded Leonard’s intelligence, poise, and physical ability. According to ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit, “Leonard is not just the best quarterback in his class—he’s the heartbeat of a program and the gold standard for what a college football leader should be.”
His influence stretches far beyond the field, raising the bar for future student-athletes. As he prepares for the next chapter, which will most likely be an early pick in the NFL Draft, Leonard leaves a legacy defined not only by wins and honors, but also by inspiration.
Riley Leonard’s journey has been one of resilience, excellence, and grace for Notre Dame fans, alumni, and the larger college football community. He may be leaving collegiate football, but his legacy as the most effective team player in the Class of 2024 will live on.