Sam Leavitt has announced his decision to enter the transfer portal after spending two seasons as the starting quarterback for Arizona State, according to ESPN’s Paolo Uggetti. This move comes after signs of a potential departure emerged, including reports from November 18 indicating that Leavitt’s camp was actively exploring options with other teams following a season-ending foot injury.
The split between Leavitt and Arizona State became more apparent when head coach Kenny Dillingham expressed his well wishes for Leavitt at the team’s end-of-year banquet, an event that Leavitt did not attend. Dillingham later reiterated his support for the quarterback on social media, praising him as a smart and talented player who is likely to succeed at his next destination.
During his tenure as the starting quarterback, Leavitt made a significant impact on the program’s record books, ranking in the top 15 for both passing yards (15th with 4,513) and touchdowns (13th with 34), despite playing fewer than three full seasons. Unfortunately, injuries marred his 2025 campaign, where he was sidelined for approximately 5.5 games. His standout moment of the season came when he threw for a career-high 319 yards and orchestrated a game-winning drive against Texas Tech, handing them their only loss while leading ASU.
Leavitt rebounded in 2024 after recovering from a rib injury, averaging 269 total yards per game and contributing 17 touchdowns with only two interceptions during the final seven games. His strong performance was pivotal in leading ASU to a Big 12 title and a College Football Playoff appearance, aided by standout wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, who was leading the nation before an injury ruled him out for the postseason.
Leavitt initially secured the starting role in August 2024, following his transfer from Michigan State where he redshirted his first year. As he prepares to enter the transfer portal officially after January 2, ASU’s quarterback depth has become a pressing concern. With Jeff Sims out of eligibility and only two redshirt freshmen, Cam Dyer and Michael “Butter” Tollefson, alongside four-star 2026 signee Jake Fette left on the roster, the Sun Devils will likely look to the transfer market to recruit experienced quarterbacks to bolster their lineup for the upcoming season. This proactive approach highlights the determination of the ASU coaching staff to adapt and continue competing at a high level.