After a grueling season as Notre Dame’s quarterback, Riley Leonard took some well-earned time off alongside his longtime girlfriend, Molly Walding. On April 7, Leonard shared photos on Instagram from an event at Auburn University, where he joined Molly for a formal occasion. He looked polished in a three-piece suit while Molly wore a stunning yellow gown. In his caption, he emphasized the importance of taking time to support her, highlighting the balance he’s tried to maintain between football and personal life.
Riley and Molly’s relationship goes back to their high school years in Fairhope, Alabama, where they began dating in 2017. Since then, they’ve remained close despite attending different colleges—Riley at Notre Dame and Molly at Auburn, where she studies public relations. She’s been by his side every step of the way, offering support through his ups and downs on the field.
Recently, the couple took a brief getaway to New Orleans, Louisiana. It was a break from the intense lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, and a chance for Riley to reset. Molly gave her followers a glimpse of their day trip through her Instagram story, posting a photo of the city’s skyline bathed in sunshine with the caption, “Surprise day trip to NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA.” The trip was less about making headlines and more about spending quiet, meaningful time together.
They also spent time in Pelican, Louisiana—a small town in DeSoto Parish with just over 700 residents. For Riley, a native of Fairhope, this visit offered peace and familiarity before the chaos of draft season. It was a time for the couple to reconnect with each other and reflect on their journey from high school romance to the brink of an NFL career.
Even with the distance between their schools, their connection has only grown stronger. Molly has been one of Riley’s most vocal supporters, often cheering him on through social media. In one post from 2023, she celebrated his birthday by calling him “the most humble guy there is.” While Riley focused on his football responsibilities, Molly kept busy with her academics and also managed social media for a campus ministry—proving she’s more than just a supportive partner, but also driven in her own right.
Riley now stands on the edge of a new chapter as NFL teams evaluate his potential. Just a few weeks ago, he wasn’t expected to be drafted, but that changed when ESPN’s Todd McShay praised him on his podcast. McShay projected Leonard as a fourth-round pick, citing his leadership, grit, and athleticism, particularly his mobility, as qualities that would stand out in the NFL.
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Leonard’s journey has been far from conventional. After facing injuries in 2023 and transferring to Notre Dame, he had a breakout 2024 season. He threw for 2,861 yards, 21 touchdowns, and completed nearly 67% of his passes. What really stood out, though, was his rushing ability—he ran for 906 yards and 17 touchdowns, tying the school’s quarterback rushing record. His performance earned him a semifinalist spot for Comeback Player of the Year, silencing many of the doubts about his future.
With NFL interest heating up, particularly from teams like the New England Patriots, Leonard is now seen as a valuable prospect who could be picked anywhere from the third to seventh rounds. According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, New England might be looking to add a third quarterback in this year’s draft, and Leonard could be an ideal fit—bringing athletic upside and depth to the QB room.
As draft day approaches, Riley Leonard’s story is shaping up as one of resilience, growth, and the strength of a steady support system beside him.