'Best day of my life': NFL rookie Riley Leonard drops big news with Molly Walding from Italy and melts hearts
On July 9, 2025, fans were caught off guard by heartwarming news from Italy. A young NFL quarterback, known for his calm game presence, made headlines but this time, off the field. A photo surfaced showing him in a romantic setting, kneeling with a ring.
The background was peaceful, the moment was personal, and the questions began. Who was the player? Who was the person beside him? And what made this trip so special? The answers came quickly and they made people smile everywhere. Here's what really happened.
Riley Leonard's engagement to
Molly Walding
in Italy
Rookie quarterback Riley Leonard, who was picked by the Indianapolis Colts in April, surprised fans this week. On Wednesday, he got engaged to his high school sweetheart, Molly Walding, in beautiful Lake Como, Italy.
Riley Leonard and Molly Walding have been dating since their high school days in Fairhope, Alabama, starting in 2017.
— coltsfancole (@coltsfancole)
They first met at Fairhope High School and stayed together through college. Riley Leonard played at Duke and Notre Dame, while Molly Walding studied public relations at Auburn University. On a sunny afternoon in Italy, Riley Leonard got down on one knee and asked Molly to marry him. He shared the moment on Instagram, writing:
'Diamonds make pressure.'
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Molly Walding showing off her new ring, replied,
'Best day of my life!!!!! I love you!!!'.
They posed in matching white outfits, holding each other by the lake. Photos show Molly Walding smiling wide and Riley Leonard looking proud and happy.
Also Read:
Will Riley Leonard Replace Aaron Rodgers As The Quarterback For The New York Jets?
Molly Walding and Riley Leonard's high school love grows strong
Molly Walding was more than just a cheerleader in high school, she was Riley Leonard's biggest fan since they were both 14 years old. They made the long-distance relationship work even when Riley Leonard moved to Duke in North Carolina and then Notre Dame in Indiana, and Molly stayed at Auburn in Alabama. Friends and followers often saw them sharing sweet posts, like Molly Walding saying
'Newest @colts fan!!!!!!!'
after Riley Leonard's NFL draft.
This engagement in Italy is now the biggest step in their shared journey. It comes just two weeks before Riley Walding starts training camp with the Indianapolis Colts on July 22, 2025. Fans are excited to see Riley Leonard balance a new NFL season with a new chapter in his life.
For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
India vs England Test match
here.
Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!
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