In the transfer portal, Notre Dame is reportedly targeting a dual-threat quarterback with two seasons as the named starter for a school in the ACC. The Irish must find a quarterback via the transfer portal to replace Sam Hartman after the season.
Hartman transferred from Wake Forest to South Bend in the portal last year, as he wanted to use his final year of eligibility to play for the Irish. Hartman wanted to compete for an opportunity in the College Football Playoffs.
Unfortunately, Hartman and the Irish finished their season with a 9-3 record, and much of the three losses were due to the offense’s struggles. Hartman’s transition to the Irish was as smooth as head coach Marcus Freeman needed, but the current lack of depth at quarterback means he’ll have to try to add through the portal this offseason.
Notre Dame linked to Riley Leonard of Duke
According to Pete Thamel with ESPN, the Irish are expected to go after Duke quarterback Riley Leonard. Leonard entered the transfer portal Wednesday afternoon.
Sources: Expect Notre Dame to target Duke QB Riley Leonard. He just entered the NCAA transfer portal
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) November 29, 2023
Leonard has been a dual threat during his time at Duke. He has a 61.7 completion percentage, 4,450 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and ten interceptions during his three seasons at Duke. Leonard has 1,224 yards rushing for 19 touchdowns during his span at Duke.
Leonard started one game in 2021 but was named the starting quarterback for the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Leonard missed a few games this season due to toe and ankle injuries.
The Irish had a chance to see Leonard up close this season during their 21-14 win over Duke in October. Leonard was 12/27 passing for 134 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He added 88 rushing yards on 18 carries.
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