Early Years & High School Stardom
Sam Leavitt emerged as one of the top high-school quarterback prospects in the class of 2023. While playing at West Linn High School in Oregon, he delivered a standout senior season: over 3,000 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and nearly 700 rushing yards with 8 scores on the ground — powering West Linn to the 6A state championship.
His performance earned him the title of Oregon Gatorade Football Player of the Year for 2022.
In recruiting rankings, he was considered a four-star prospect by 247Sports, rated among the top high school QBs in the nation.
Sam comes from a football-savvy background. His father — Jared Leavitt — played linebacker in college, and Sam’s older brother, Dallin Leavitt, went on to play in the NFL.
Commitment to Michigan State Spartans
Late in his recruitment, Leavitt committed to Michigan State on December 15, 2022 — after previously de-committing from another major program.
He was drawn by the offensive vision and a strong relationship with the Spartans’ coaching staff, particularly a rapport with the quarterbacks coach.
At 6’2″, 200 lbs, with a strong arm and dual-threat athleticism, he was widely viewed as a pro-style QB capable of making all the throws while also extending plays with his legs.
College Freshman Year: 2023 at Michigan State
In 2023, as a true freshman with Michigan State, Leavitt appeared in four games. In limited action he completed 15 of 23 passes for 139 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions — plus 67 rushing yards.
His early playing time preserved his redshirt status, giving him four more years of eligibility at that point.
Decision to Transfer — Entering the Transfer Portal
Shortly after the 2023 season, Leavitt entered the transfer portal. The move came in the wake of a coaching change at Michigan State: former head coach Mel Tucker departed and was replaced by Jonathan Smith, who previously had not recruited Leavitt when at another school. Leavitt cited “hard feelings” over not being offered originally — despite being a local Oregon recruit — as a key factor.
He made it clear that his move wasn’t just about a coaching change — but about feeling slighted during the recruitment process, saying: “I felt slighted by that. Why would they like me now when they didn’t like me before?”
The Transfer: New Beginning at Arizona State Sun Devils
On December 11, 2023, Sam Leavitt committed to Arizona State, becoming the first former Michigan State quarterback from the 2023-class to land elsewhere.
He cited the coaches at ASU — who spent significant time discussing mechanics and quarterback development — as a major reason for choosing the Sun Devils.
Arizona State’s system promised him a better fit, more playing time, and a chance to fully capitalize on his talent and potential.
Why Leavitt’s Story Resonates
-
Talent met production — As a high-school star, Leavitt didn’t just flash, but delivered with volume and efficiency.
-
Family legacy & football IQ — Growing up with a father and brother steeped in football gave him early exposure to the sport’s demands and nuances.
-
Recruitment & relationships matter — His decision to leave Michigan State underscores how deeply personal recruiting relationships can influence a player’s career.
-
The transfer portal’s impact — Leavitt’s transfer is a high-profile example of the modern college-football landscape, where coaching changes often lead to roster turnover.
Final Thoughts
Sam Leavitt’s journey — from standout high-school quarterback to Michigan State commit to Arizona State transfer — reflects both the opportunities and uncertainties of college football today. Talent, legacy, relationships, and institutional shifts all play a part. As Leavitt embarks on his chapter with Arizona State, many eyes will watch to see whether he fulfills the promise he showed in high school.
Leave a Reply