TEMPE — Arizona State running back Raleek Brown is changing course after previous reports indicated he was planning to declare for the NFL draft.
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Nov 22, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils running back Raleek Brown (3) carries the ball in the first quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
According to 247Sports’ Chris Hummer, the former five-star recruit is entering the transfer portal after spending two seasons with ASU. Known for his explosiveness and his defining role on offense, Brown’s pivot highlights the ever-changing landscape of college football.
For Arizona State, the shift does not significantly alter offseason plans. The Sun Devils were already preparing for Brown’s departure and understood they would need to replace the power and speed the running back brought to the Valley.
Oct 25, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils running back Raleek Brown (3) against the Houston Cougars at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
During the 2025 season, Brown recorded 186 carries for 1,141 yards and four touchdowns.
Brown’s decision to enter the portal allows him to reset his trajectory. While the NFL draft offered a direct path to the professional level, another collegiate stop could provide more consistent opportunities and additional film for scouts to evaluate.
Nov 22, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils running back Raleek Brown (3) before the game against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Expectations placed on elite players like Brown can be substantial. Moving from one major decision to another in a short time often involves extensive reflection before committing to a path. The transfer portal offers Brown a clean slate and one that may better align with his long-term goals.
Where Brown lands next will be closely watched, but his change of heart underscores how heavily these decisions can weigh on today’s student-athletes.
Arizona State RB Raleek Brown has entered the portal, @mzenitz and me have learned for @247Sports.
Brown ran for 1,141 yards and 4 TDs on 6.1 yards per carry this year. https://t.co/UdUZiSHIdZ pic.twitter.com/eIvfTLJSVY
— Chris Hummer (@chris_hummer) January 2, 2026
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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