Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt, fresh off foot surgery, has suddenly become a talking point in the college football transfer portal for 2026. His future with the Sun Devils feels up in the air, and recent reports have only fueled the debate.
On3 insider Pete Nakos, along with Steve Wiltfong, claimed that Leavitt was unlikely to return to Tempe. But Leavitt’s brother and agent, Dallin Leavitt, didn’t let that go unchallenged.
Their public back-and-forth has grabbed plenty of attention. As the offseason nears, the rumor mill around Sam Leavitt just keeps spinning.
The Rise of Sam Leavitt
Sam Leavitt’s path through college football has been wild. Even with a season full of injury struggles, his raw talent and upside have kept him on everyone’s radar.
He’s got a knack for commanding the field, and that kind of strategic mind is rare. With 2026 on the horizon, fans can’t help but wonder: Will he stick with Arizona State, or chase a new opportunity?
Injury Setback
Leavitt’s season ended early after a foot injury that needed surgery. That alone sparked plenty of speculation about what’s next.
The operation happened at the end of October, and honestly, people aren’t sure if he’ll get back to his old self.
The Transfer Portal Speculation
The transfer portal’s become a circus every year, and Sam Leavitt sits right at the center of the rumors. Offseason moves like his can shake up the entire College Football Playoff picture.
On3 Report
On3’s Pete Nakos and Steve Wiltfong recently suggested Leavitt’s return to Arizona State was “doubtful.” That got people talking fast.
The idea of Leavitt leaving Tempe just added more drama to an already unpredictable offseason.
Dallin Leavitt’s Response
Dallin Leavitt, who’s both Sam’s brother and agent, fired back almost immediately. He posted screenshots of texts with Nakos, hinting that the report might be jumping the gun.
Dallin wanted to make it clear—nothing’s final yet. The saga just keeps getting messier.
Impact on Arizona State and Beyond
If Sam Leavitt leaves Arizona State, the Sun Devils will feel it. He’s a key player, and losing him would sting.
His choice could also shake up the College Football Playoff race, pulling national attention to what might otherwise be a quieter storyline.
Arizona State’s Prospects
If Leavitt transfers, Arizona State needs to find someone who can fill his role. Their Big 12 performance and overall strategy hinge on that decision.
The coaching staff will have to pivot fast to keep the team in the hunt.
National Implications
Leavitt’s move could tip the scales for teams hoping to make the College Football Playoff. Programs everywhere are watching his next step.
He’s the kind of player who can change a team’s fate, and if he transfers, the playoff landscape could look a lot different.
The Race to Break News
The dust-up between Dallin Leavitt and Pete Nakos says a lot about the race to break news in college football. Everyone wants to be first, but sometimes that leads to shaky reporting.
That scramble for scoops can spark drama and confusion, especially when the facts aren’t all in.
Journalistic Integrity
Sure, breaking news matters, but getting it right matters more. The exchange between Dallin and Nakos is a pretty good reminder of that.
Sports journalists have to balance speed with accuracy if they want to keep people’s trust.
Public Perception
Fans’ opinions can swing wildly based on what the media reports. With Sam Leavitt, all the mixed messages have left people guessing.
Everyone’s waiting for the real story, and early reports are definitely under the microscope.
Looking Ahead
As the offseason drags on, all eyes stay glued to Sam Leavitt and whatever choice he makes. Whether he sticks with Arizona State or heads somewhere new, people are going to talk.
His decision could ripple across college football, and honestly, it’s one of the few stories that actually feels worth following right now.
Final Decision
Sam Leavitt gets to call the shots in the end. His future in college football depends on a lot—his injury recovery, the team’s vibe, and what he really wants out of all this.
People keep speculating, and honestly, the anticipation just keeps building. If you want to dig into the details, the full report is here.
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