Riley Leonard’s 2025 journey didn’t exactly start with fireworks. The Notre Dame quarterback gave it everything he had in the National Championship game, but despite his best efforts, the Fighting Irish couldn’t get the job done. Even so, Leonard’s stock hasn’t fallen—if anything, he’s setting himself up for a massive leap forward. And now, with his sights set on the NFL, he’s making a move that could reshape his future in the league.
Leonard has decided to bulk up, a strategic decision that could be the key to solidifying his draft position and catching the eye of a major NFL franchise valued at a staggering $5.4 billion. If this move pays off, he might just secure his spot with a team that sees him as an ideal fit for their system.
Riley Leonard’s Evolution: From College Star to NFL Prospect
Notre Dame fans will always remember Leonard’s contributions. He was the driving force behind a thrilling 18-play opening drive in the championship, capping it off with a rushing touchdown that put the Irish in the lead against Ohio State. He ended the game with 255 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a completion rate that kept scouts intrigued. It was the perfect showcase of his leadership and playmaking ability, but Leonard knows raw stats won’t be enough to guarantee his draft position.
That’s where his latest decision comes in. Instead of relying solely on his resume, Leonard is actively transforming his body to become a more durable, powerful force at the next level. His goal? To bulk up from 216 pounds to around 230 by training camp.
This revelation came via NFL Rookie Watch, which dropped an Instagram post highlighting Leonard’s training progress. “Riley Leonard’s arm looks NASTY ahead of the NFL Combine,” the post read, accompanied by images of the quarterback looking noticeably stronger. Leonard isn’t taking any chances—he’s training with QB Country, the same program that helped shape elite prospects like Bo Nix and Arch Manning. And with analysts already drawing comparisons to Josh Allen and Ryan Tannehill, the buzz around him is only growing.
Why Leonard’s Bulk-Up Strategy Could Be a Game-Changer
Adding extra muscle isn’t just about looking the part—it’s about survival in the NFL. At 216 pounds, Leonard already had the athleticism and toughness to extend plays, but the added weight could make him significantly more resistant to big hits in the pocket. With defenders getting stronger and faster every season, durability is a major factor for quarterbacks. This strategic move might be the edge he needs to stand out among other mid-to-late-round prospects.
Leonard isn’t new to making headlines, either. During his time at Duke, he was briefly projected as a first-round talent. However, after transferring to Notre Dame and facing a rollercoaster season, his draft stock fluctuated. Now, as he approaches the NFL Combine and Pro Day, he’s focused on proving he’s not just a college standout but a legitimate pro prospect.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Eyeing Leonard as Their Next Quarterback?
Leonard’s rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. College Football Network analyst Will Helms recently released a seven-round mock draft, and in it, Leonard lands with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a projected seventh-round pick. The reasoning? He could be the perfect backup for Baker Mayfield and a direct replacement for Kyle Trask, whose contract is set to expire in 2025.
Helms didn’t mince words when explaining why Leonard fits the Buccaneers’ mold. “Again, toughness,” he emphasized. While some scouts question whether Leonard has an NFL-caliber arm, his football IQ, leadership, and physicality make him a valuable asset. “Riley Leonard’s arm is below average for an NFL quarterback, but his football I.Q. and leadership should make him an ideal backup, especially to a similarly-built quarterback like Baker Mayfield.”
Leonard’s rushing ability also makes him an intriguing option for Tampa Bay. Last season alone, he racked up 866 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns—numbers that rival some running backs. His mobility and strength make him an interesting dual-threat option, something that’s increasingly valuable in today’s NFL.
Could Leonard’s Transformation Secure Him a Spot in the NFL?
With the NFL Combine and Pro Day fast approaching, Riley Leonard is in a race against time to refine his game and prove his worth. His decision to bulk up signals that he’s all-in on making a serious impact at the next level. If his transformation translates to better performance during pre-draft workouts, his stock could rise, potentially pushing him up the draft board.
For now, all eyes are on Tampa Bay as a potential landing spot, but the NFL is unpredictable. One strong showing at the combine could change everything. Bigger, stronger, and with a chip on his shoulder—could Riley Leonard’s new physique be the key to making waves in the NFL?
