Kenny Dillingham addresses reports of Sam Leavitt’s future at Arizona State: ‘I don’t listen to the outside noise’

Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham isn’t stressing or worried about the reports surrounding QB Sam Leavitt. Leavitt, who plans to play college football in 2026 following a season-ending injury, is “doubtful” to return to the Sun Devils next year.

On3’s Steve Wiltfong and Pete Nakos reported Leavitt’s camp is “shopping” him “at a high level” to other programs with plans on entering the transfer portal on January 2nd. Due to his success at ASU last year and this season prior to injury, he could fetch a high price.

But Dillingham and Arizona State, who are not out of the Big 12 race, are focused on the games ahead, not the future. He was asked about his QB Wednesday.

“I’m focused on Colorado,” Dillingham said. “We came out on fire this week (in practice). I don’t listen to the outside noise. It’s November and we’re in the hunt (Big 12 championship game)”

Leavitt is represented by his brother Dallin through CAA. He told Nakos a final decision has not been made.

Coming into the season, Leavitt was one of college football’s top returning quarterbacks after leading the Sun Devils to a Big 12 Championship and College Football Playoff appearance. He completed nearly 62 percent of his passes for 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns to just six interceptions.

In an injury-riddled 2025 campaign, Leavitt completed over 60 percent of his throws for 1,628 yards and 10 scores. He has 10 rushing touchdowns over the last two seasons. A foot injury sidelined for the rest of 2025.

As a member of the Class of 2023, Leavitt was a four-star recruit out of Portland (Ore.) West Linn, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking. He was the No. 1 overall prospect in the state, the No. 24 quarterback in the class and the No. 381 overall prospect in the class. He originally committed to Michigan State.