Sam Leavitt to enter transfer portal, ends tenure at ASU

Leavitt spent two seasons at Arizona State after transferring from Michigan State ahead of the 2024 campaign. He had been viewed as one of the program’s most important long-term pieces, but his departure now leaves a significant hole for the Sun Devils to fill next season.

There was speculation Sunday night about Leavitt’s future after he skipped the team’s banquet, becoming the only captain not to attend. It was the first public indication he might be leaving ASU and Totri’s report all but confirmed that possibility.

Sep 13, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt (10 )looks downfield in the first quarter of the game between Arizona State Sun Devils and Texas State Bobcats. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images

Leavitt’s exit leaves Arizona State even thinner at quarterback, with backup Jeff Sims also departing after completing his senior season.

Beyond the roster implications, Leavitt’s move places both himself and the ASU program under a brighter spotlight as observers watch where he lands next. Head coach Kenny Dillingham is also being watched to see how he navigates the loss of a player considered a key pillar of the team over the past two years.

Sep 26, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Sam Leavitt (10) reacts after run against TCU Horned Frogs in the first half at Mountain America Stadium, Home of the ASU Sun Devils. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Reiner-Imagn Images

With clarity on Leavitt’s status, ASU now turns its full attention to the end of the season as it seeks one more win to close the season. The Sun Devils will face ACC champion Duke in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl in El Paso, with a little more to play for after Monday’s report.

ASU and Duke play on Wednesday, Dec. 31, at 12 p.m. MST.