Former Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt has made the decision official, transferring to LSU after putting his name in the college football transfer portal on January 12, 2026. His leaving is a big shift to the Sun Devils because they are entering the new season without their new starter.
The Tenure of Leavitt at Arizona State
Leavitt arrived at ASU in two seasons after turning over at Michigan State. In 2024, he was the central figure who steered the Sun Devils into a Big 12 title and a College Football Playoff. The discussion had high expectations for 2025, but he had to end his season after seven games due to a foot injury that required surgery. Leavitt was a protagonist in the recent success of the ASU despite the year being shortened.
As Leavitt leaves, Kenny Dillingham and his team now have to find another starting quarterback. The process should be competitive and open during the offseason workouts and fall camp. However, several options should be considered before the final decision is reached.
Cutter Boley Leads the Conversation
Cutter Boley is the top candidate and a probable successor, as he is a transfer quarterback. One of those former four-star recruits, Boley, comes to the school after an effective redshirt freshman year. At 6-foot-5 and with SEC experience, he is considered a high-upside talent that has three years of eligibility left. According to the early evaluations surrounding the program, he is the candidate most likely to replace the offense in 2026.
Although the battle between the quarterbacks is by no means over, the available evidence points to the fact that Boley is the frontrunner. The next few months will help the coaching staff of Arizona State to understand that he can turn his potential into regular production as the Sun Devils begin a new era under the center.