Former Arizona State QB Sam Leavitt has announced his decision to transfer to LSU, where he will play under new head coach Lane Kiffin.
The announcement came on Monday, capping off weeks of speculation and visits to multiple programs. Leavitt, widely regarded as the top QB in the transfer portal, chose the Tigers over other schools like Miami, Tennessee, and Kentucky.
This high-profile addition marks the biggest needle mover for LSU, especially as the program navigates a new chapter under the newly-hired Kiffin. Leavitt’s decision follows a rollercoaster career that has seen him rise from a highly-regarded recruit to a playoff-leading starter.
Originally signing with Michigan State in 2023, he appeared in just four games as a freshman before transferring to Arizona State. There, he blossomed into a dual-threat star, guiding the Sun Devils to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals in 2024 with 2,885 passing yards, and a 24 TD to 6 INT ratio. However, his 2025 season was hampered by a season-ending foot injury that required surgery.
For LSU, Leavitt’s arrival addresses a critical need at QB after the graduation of Garrett Nussmeier and the transfer of backup Michael Van Buren to South Florida.
Kiffin, known for his offensive prowess from stints at Ole Miss and elsewhere, has been aggressive in rebuilding the roster. Social media erupted with excitement from fans and analysts alike, with many hailing it as a “heist” that positions the Tigers for contention in 2026.
The move to get Leavitt was part of a busy 24 hours for LSU, including retaining key players and landing other transfers like Ole Miss WR Winston Watkins Jr. and Kentucky OL Darrin Strey.
Leavitt’s Collegiate Journey to LSU
Leavitt’s path to success began in West Linn, Oregon, where he was a highly touted high school prospect. Committing to Michigan State for the 2023 class, Leavitt saw limited action as a true freshman, playing in four games and throwing for 139 yards with 2 TD and 2 INT.
The Spartans’ QB room was crowded, and with a coaching change coming down the pike, Leavitt entered the transfer portal seeking a fresh start. Under head coach Kenny Dillingham, Leavitt won the starting job and excelled in a pro-style offense that highlighted his arm strength and mobility.
His leadership was instrumental in Arizona State’s surprising run to the College Football Playoff, where they reached the quarterfinals before getting ousted.
Unfortunately, 2025 brought challenges. An ankle injury, which was later diagnosed as a severe foot issue requiring surgery, sidelined him for the final five games and derailed what could have been another standout year.
Over his career, Leavitt has amassed 4,652 passing yards and 36 TDs, showcasing a blend of accuracy, decision-making, and athleticism that makes him a perfect fit for modern college offenses. Kiffin is going to love his quick release and ability to extend plays, drawing some hopeful praise to becoming the latest dual-threat QBs to thrive in the SEC.
The Decision to Join LSU
Leavitt’s transfer process was a whirlwind of visits and NIL negotiations. After entering the portal, he toured Kentucky, Tennessee, Miami, and finally LSU, where a lengthy stay in Baton Rouge sealed the deal.
Sources indicate Kiffin personally visited Leavitt in Tennessee to close the recruitment, emphasizing LSU’s resources and offensive scheme.
So, what tipped the scales? LSU’s brand name, known for developing QBs, and the program’s history of success with transfers like Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels (who transferred from Arizona State and won the Heisman in 2023) certainly played a role. Daniels’ path provided a blueprint, and Leavitt saw an opportunity to step into a starting role immediately, with two years of eligibility remaining.
The competition outside of LSU was fierce. Miami offered a coastal vibe and NIL deals, while Tennessee and Kentucky promised SEC battles. But LSU’s pitch, including first-team reps during spring while Leavitt rehabbed, and competitive financial packages, won out.
Leavitt’s Expectations in 2026
Leavitt’s addition injects star power into an LSU offense reloading after a down year in 2025. With weapons like retained stars Harlem Berry and Trey’Dez Green, plus new transfers, the Tigers could boast one of the SEC’s most explosive units. The dual-threat ability aligns perfectly with Kiffin’s up-tempo, RPO-heavy system, potentially elevating LSU back to playoff contention.
With recovery from his foot injury on track, spring practices will be key to integrating him.
Beyond stats, Leavitt brings leadership and resilience, qualities that could galvanize a team under new management. Things are cooking in Baton Rouge, and if Leavitt stays healthy, 2026 could mark the dawn of a new LSU dynasty with its new signal-caller under center.
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