Sam Leavitt stands at a crossroads that could define his career. Should he stay at Arizona State University (ASU) or take the leap into the 2026 NFL Draft? This decision is more than just a personal choice—it’s a question that has fans, analysts, and even his coaches deeply divided. But here’s where it gets controversial: with his recent injury and fluctuating draft projections, is now the right time for Leavitt to make the jump? Or is staying at ASU for another season the smarter move?
Let’s break it down. Sam Leavitt’s 2023 season ended prematurely due to an undisclosed injury that requires surgery. This setback has left him with a critical decision: has he shown enough in his 20 starts at ASU to convince NFL scouts he’s ready for the big leagues? ASU coach Kenny Dillingham is taking a patient approach, emphasizing that Leavitt’s health and well-being come first. ‘We’re not in a rush,’ Dillingham said. ‘I want him to make the decision that’s best for him and his future.’ But this is the part most people miss: the timing of this decision could shape not just Leavitt’s career, but also ASU’s offensive strategy moving forward.
The biggest factor in Leavitt’s decision? His projected draft slot. Earlier this season, he was generating buzz as a potential top-10 or top-20 pick, with ESPN’s Field Yates and The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner singing his praises. However, a disappointing performance against Mississippi State’s SEC defense, coupled with his injury, caused his stock to drop. As of late October, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. ranked him as the seventh-best quarterback in the class, outside his top-25 prospects. PFF placed him at No. 54 overall. These numbers raise a bold question: is Leavitt risking too much by leaving now, or could another year at ASU elevate him back into the first-round conversation?
Then there’s the financial aspect. According to On3 Sports, Leavitt’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) valuation peaked at $2.7-3.1 million earlier this season, placing him in the range of late first-round picks. However, following news of his surgery, his valuation has dipped to $2 million. Even so, that’s more than what the 39th pick in the 2025 draft is earning in their first year. Leavitt’s partnerships with brands like Adidas, Powerade, and Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers highlight his marketability, and his NIL Store sales ranked him in the top 10 among college athletes in August. But here’s the kicker: if he stays at ASU, can he maintain or even grow this financial momentum?
Another critical factor is the talent around him. If Jordyn Tyson and Cam Skattebo declare for the draft, Leavitt would be stepping into uncharted territory without his trusted offensive teammates. While candidates like true freshman Cam Dyer and 2026 four-star commit Jake Fette are waiting in the wings, their inexperience could lead to a veteran transfer being brought in to compete for the starting job. This raises another controversial point: would staying at ASU with a potentially less experienced supporting cast hurt or help Leavitt’s NFL prospects?
So, what should Sam Leavitt do? Should he trust his current body of work and take the leap into the NFL, or should he bet on himself for another year at ASU? And here’s a thought-provoking question for you: if you were in his shoes, would you prioritize the financial security of staying in college or the high-risk, high-reward gamble of the NFL? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
