A fierce rivalry is brewing as Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard and Joe Alt prepare for a transformative journey to the NFL

Riley Leonard: Notre Dame’s standout draft prospect

With the NFL Draft season approaching, the spotlight inevitably falls on standout college football players looking to make a name for themselves in the professional league. These rising stars include Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard and Joe Alt, whose exceptional performances have generated attention and anticipation for their next career chapter.

Riley Leonard proved to be a key figure in Notre Dame’s remarkable 2024 season, contributing significantly to the team’s historic 14-1 record. Under the guidance of head coach Marcus Freeman, Leonard showcased his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback, racking up impressive passing and rushing stats. His remarkable achievements on the field have made him an excellent candidate for NFL teams looking for a dynamic playmaker.

Despite Leonard’s undeniable talent, some uncertainty remains regarding his readiness for a first-round pick. Questions about his demeanor under pressure and competition from other top quarterbacks could impact his draft position. However, for smart teams willing to invest in his potential, Leonard represents a promising opportunity to improve their offensive capabilities.

Potential NFL destinations for Riley Leonard

The Indianapolis Colts are a potential landing spot for Riley Leonard as they prefer mobile quarterbacks who are adept at both passing and running. Leonard’s adaptability to effectively execute plays on the ground and in the air fits well with the Colts’ offensive strategy and makes him a compelling choice for their future quarterback needs.

In Buffalo, the Bills could benefit from Leonard’s unique skill set that provides versatility in short-yardage and red zone situations. His ability to contribute as a dual-threat player adds an additional dimension to the team’s offensive plans and provides coverage and strategic options for key game scenarios.

Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers, known for valuing versatile players, might find Leonard’s dual-threat skills attractive. With a roster that thrives on dynamic playmakers, Leonard’s agility and versatile approach could give the Niners a valuable advantage in diversifying their offensive strategies.

Joe Alt: Notre Dame’s defensive asset for NFL teams

Joe Alt, a towering force on Notre Dame’s offensive line, has drawn attention with his imposing physical presence and exceptional blocking skills. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 300 pounds, Alt’s dominance in pass protection and run blocking has cemented his reputation as one of the top offensive tackle prospects in the upcoming draft.

The Los Angeles Chargers, looking to bolster their offensive line to protect star quarterback Justin Herbert, could find an ideal candidate in Joe Alt. His size, strength and reliable blocking could give Herbert the protection and stability needed to effectively lead the Chargers’ offense.

In New York, the Giants’ offensive line issues were a persistent problem, with pass protection and run blocking presenting challenges for the team. The arrival of Joe Alt could herald a transformative change, providing a solution to the Giants’ long-standing problems on the offensive line and improving their overall performance.

For the Chicago Bears, improving offensive line protection is paramount, especially given their rookie quarterback’s susceptibility to sacks. Alt’s skills in pass protection and run blocking could give the Bears a strategic advantage and improve their quarterback’s safety and offensive efficiency.

As the NFL Draft approaches, the journeys of Riley Leonard and Joe Alt are compelling tales of the transition from college to professional football. With their exceptional talents and potential to make a significant impact in the league, both players are poised to add an exciting twist to the competition and elevate the performances of their future NFL teams.