TEMPE — Former Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt has officially entered the transfer portal as he searches for the next program in his collegiate career.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!NEW: Kentucky has entered the mix for star Arizona State transfer QB Sam Leavitt, @SWiltfong_ & @PeteNakos report😼
Leavitt entered with a do-not-contact tag this morning.
Intel: https://t.co/5x8U7AFpn5 https://t.co/8jXmQk1Q8x pic.twitter.com/Y4A7fCMqwU
— On3 (@On3sports) January 2, 2026
When the portal opened, Leavitt’s status included a do-not-contact tag, according to a report from On3’s Pete Nakos. Nakos later reported that Kentucky has emerged as an interested program, quickly pushing the Wildcats into the mix to land the former Sun Devil.
The do-not-contact designation also highlights the quarterback’s desire to narrow his options and avoid prolonged uncertainty during the process.
Oct 18, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) against the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the second half at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Leavitt has been one of the most notable names to enter the portal this cycle and Kentucky’s emergence as a potential suitor suggests there may have already been mutual interest. The former Sun Devil broke out in Tempe over two seasons, becoming one of the key pieces of Arizona State’s offense.
Despite missing part of the second half of the season due to injury, Leavitt still made a significant impact in 2025. He threw for 1,628 yards with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions.
Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) looks over at the sidelines during the first day of fall practice in Tempe, Ariz. on July 30, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Leavitt’s departure is one of several as Arizona State looks to retool for 2025, but replacing a quarterback with his arm talent and mobility will not be easy.
The news also resonates with fans across the Valley, many of whom have mixed emotions regarding Leavitt’s exit and the lack of a formal farewell. The quarterback did not attend the team’s banquet in December, which left some supporters disappointed with how his tenure in Tempe came to an end.
Oct 11, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) warms up before the game against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
Still, Arizona State will move forward as it searches for its next starting quarterback, searching for one capable of providing similar production for the program. The transfer process remains fast-moving and unpredictable, giving the Sun Devils opportunities to explore other experienced options seeking a fresh start.
As negotiations begin, attention will remain on Leavitt and where he ultimately lands, as well as on Arizona State as the program ushers in a new era in Tempe.
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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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