Notre Dame’s Leonard Moore Stuns Field, Wins 2025 Lott IMPACT Trophy Over Six Elite Contenders
In a momentous achievement that highlights both talent and character, Notre Dame sophomore cornerback Leonard Moore has been named the 2025 Lott IMPACT Trophy winner, edging out six other top-tier contenders for one of college football’s most prestigious honors.
The Lott IMPACT Trophy—named after Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott—celebrates players who demonstrate excellence in both performance and personal character, with IMPACT standing for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, and Tenacity. Moore’s selection as the 2025 recipient is not only a recognition of his skill on the field but a testament to his leadership and presence beyond it.
Moore, a 6’2” lockdown corner with elite athleticism and instincts, made waves in just his second year with the Fighting Irish. In the 2024 season, he recorded 5 interceptions, 18 pass breakups, and 52 tackles, emerging as a key force in one of the nation’s top-ranked defenses. More than just a stat-sheet stuffer, Moore consistently shadowed opposing teams’ top receivers and delivered in clutch moments, helping Notre Dame secure critical wins en route to a New Year’s Six bowl appearance.
But it wasn’t just his physical play that stood out to voters.
Moore has garnered praise from teammates and coaches alike for his maturity and leadership, rare traits for a sophomore. Whether it was staying late after practice to mentor freshmen or volunteering in the South Bend community, Moore’s impact off the field resonated deeply with the Lott Trophy committee.
“He’s the full package,” said Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman. “Leonard has the skill, the intelligence, and most importantly, the heart. He represents everything the Lott Trophy stands for.”
The competition for the award was fierce. Moore beat out a loaded field that included Alabama linebacker Chris Paul Jr., Michigan defensive back Donovan Wallace, LSU edge rusher Malik Bryant, Penn State safety Kamari Matthews, Georgia linebacker Trey Sanders, and Oregon defensive tackle Noah Fa’alogo. Each of these players had an outstanding 2024 season and boasted impressive academic and community achievements. Yet, it was Moore’s all-around impact and consistency that ultimately swayed the voting panel.
Ronnie Lott himself commented on the selection, saying, “Leonard Moore is exactly the kind of young man we envisioned when we created this award. He’s a warrior on the field and a leader in life. The future of football—and our communities—is bright with players like him.”
For Moore, the award is a humbling recognition of his hard work and a motivator for the road ahead.
“This means the world to me,” Moore said in his acceptance speech. “To be honored not just for how I play, but for who I try to be as a person—it’s a blessing. I’m grateful to my teammates, coaches, my family, and to Notre Dame for believing in me.”
With two years of eligibility still remaining and a trophy cabinet already starting to fill, Leonard Moore is poised to be one of college football’s brightest stars—and now, one of its most respected.
