Arizona State QB Sam Leavitt may enter the 2026 transfer portal. Explore why Miami football could pursue him as their next veteran starter.
Arizona State QB Sam Leavitt Expected to Hit Transfer Portal, Opening Door for Miami Football in 2026
Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt, once viewed as the future centerpiece of the Sun Devils’ offense, is reportedly unlikely to return to Tempe for the 2026 season. According to Steve Wiltfong and Pete Nakos of On3, Leavitt is expected to explore the transfer portal—an update that could have major implications for programs searching for an experienced and dynamic quarterback. And with Miami’s recent success developing transfer QBs, the Hurricanes immediately emerge as a serious potential landing spot.
Leavitt began his career at Michigan State before transferring to Arizona State following the 2023 season. His arrival was transformative for the Sun Devils. In 2024, he led Arizona State to a Big XII championship and a College Football Playoff berth—an accomplishment that instantly made him one of the most talented young quarterbacks in college football.
But his 2025 season took an unfortunate turn. Leavitt played in only seven games before suffering a foot injury that required season-ending surgery. With two years of eligibility remaining, the redshirt sophomore now faces a critical decision: enter the 2026 NFL Draft or return to college football to rebuild his draft stock.
Given his limited availability in 2025 and the importance of proving full recovery to NFL evaluators, returning to school seems the more realistic option. And if he does choose the college route, the transfer portal may offer the best opportunity to find the right system, coaching staff, and national visibility.
Leavitt’s Production Makes Him a Top Transfer Target
Despite the injury, Leavitt’s résumé is strong. Across 24 career games at Michigan State and Arizona State, he has completed 61.4% of his passes, throwing for 4,652 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just 11 interceptions. His dual-threat ability sets him apart—he has added 810 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground, making him one of the more balanced quarterbacks available.
Leavitt’s combination of athleticism, accuracy, and experience in Power Five environments makes him a rare and coveted transfer portal option. For a program in search of a proven playmaker who can elevate an offense immediately, he checks every box.
And that’s exactly why Miami should be paying close attention.
Why Miami Football Could Be the Perfect Fit
Miami has quietly become one of the most attractive programs for transfer quarterbacks looking to skyrocket their careers. In fact, the Hurricanes have gone to the portal for a starting QB in each of the last two seasons—and the results speak for themselves.
Cam Ward arrived at Miami in 2024 and delivered one of the most memorable seasons in program history. He became a Heisman Trophy finalist, shattered multiple school records, and ultimately was selected first overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Ward’s one-year turnaround with the Hurricanes demonstrated the program’s ability to elevate veteran quarterbacks into national stars.
Carson Beck followed Ward in 2025. Although Beck’s season has been inconsistent, he has also delivered several eye-opening performances and kept Miami’s offense explosive. The Hurricanes’ willingness to let talented quarterbacks play freely within an aggressive passing scheme continues to attract interest nationwide.
With this recent track record, Miami has become a destination where transfer QBs can enhance their visibility and put up massive production—making it an appealing option for someone like Sam Leavitt, who will be looking to reestablish himself coming off an injury.
Miami’s Current Quarterback Picture
The Hurricanes already have a crowded quarterback room heading into 2026, but much of it is built on youth and potential rather than experience:
- Emory Williams — Redshirt sophomore (2025)
- Judd Anderson — Redshirt freshman (2025)
- Luke Nickel — True freshman (2025)
Miami also holds the commitment of four-star quarterback Dereon Coleman in the 2026 recruiting class.
While the talent is promising, the program still lacks an established veteran who has been tested in major college environments. That gap is exactly what pushed Miami toward Ward and Beck in back-to-back seasons—and it may steer them toward another transfer in 2026 depending on how their young quarterbacks develop.
Whether head coach Mario Cristobal and offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson feel comfortable handing the offense to a younger passer remains to be seen. If doubts linger, Miami could once again look to the portal.
Could Miami Make a Push for Leavitt?
For Miami, the potential pursuit of Leavitt would likely depend on several factors:
- How quickly he recovers from his foot surgery
- The progression of the quarterbacks already on the roster
- Cristobal’s confidence in having a veteran starter for 2026
- Leavitt’s desire to join a program with national exposure and NFL development success
If all align, Miami could become one of the most appealing options available. The Hurricanes can offer proven quarterback development, a high-profile platform, and a system designed for big passing numbers—an ideal environment for a player looking to make a leap back into the national spotlight.
A Decision That Could Shift Multiple Programs
Sam Leavitt’s next move will not only shape his own career but could influence quarterback competitions across the Power Five. If he officially enters the transfer portal, he will become one of the most sought-after quarterbacks available in the 2026 cycle.
And given Miami’s recent history with transfer quarterbacks—and their need to maintain momentum in a competitive ACC—it would be surprising if Cristobal and his staff didn’t at least explore the possibility.
Leavitt’s journey is at a crossroads, but the portal may offer the ideal path forward. For Miami, the opportunity to add another proven playmaker might be too good to pass up.
