“My Heart Is With Arizona State” – Star QB Sam Leavitt Rejects $19M Alabama Offer to Stay True to the Sun Devils
In a shocking and inspirational move that has sent ripples through the college football world, Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt has officially turned down a massive $19 million offer from the powerhouse Alabama Crimson Tide, choosing instead to stay loyal to the Arizona State Sun Devils and finish his college career in Tempe, Arizona.
The decision, revealed with the powerful quote: “My heart is with Arizona State,” has captivated fans, analysts, and players across the country. Leavitt’s choice defies the increasingly common trend of athletes chasing lucrative NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals at the expense of loyalty, culture, and legacy. His commitment is a defining moment—not only for Arizona State’s football program—but for college sports in general.
—
A Talent Worth Millions
Sam Leavitt is no ordinary quarterback. Regarded as one of the most talented signal-callers in college football, Leavitt has been projected by many as a potential first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. His arm strength, field vision, and poise in the pocket have earned him comparisons to elite-level NFL quarterbacks.
So when Alabama—a dynasty known for producing top-tier NFL talent—came knocking with a $19 million NIL deal, many expected Leavitt to take the offer. But instead, he delivered a message that was loud and clear: “It’s not just about money. It’s about finishing what I started. It’s about loyalty. It’s about family. Arizona State gave me a chance, and I’m going to see it through.”
—
A Culture-Defining Moment for Arizona State
This moment could be a game-changer for the Arizona State football program. New head coach Kenny Dillingham and his staff have emphasized building a strong culture, one built on player development, unity, and resilience. Leavitt’s decision reinforces that culture, signaling to recruits and fans that Arizona State is more than a stepping stone—it’s a destination.
Sun Devils fans are celebrating not just the return of their star quarterback, but the message it sends to the nation. In a college football landscape driven by money, television deals, and quick exits, Leavitt is choosing heart over hype.
—
Impact on the 2025 Season and Beyond
With Leavitt back under center, Arizona State’s 2025 season is now filled with promise. The team has already built momentum, and the return of its leader positions them as serious contenders in the new-look Big 12 Conference. His presence brings stability, confidence, and leadership to a program on the rise.
For Alabama, this represents a rare recruiting miss. While they will undoubtedly continue to attract talent, the rejection by Leavitt highlights that prestige and dollars alone may not be enough to win over today’s top athletes.
—
A Decision That Will Be Remembered
Sam Leavitt’s bold choice to turn down Alabama’s millions and remain with Arizona State will go down as one of the most talked-about moments in modern college football. It’s a reminder that, sometimes, heart, loyalty, and belief in a team’s vision matter more than any contract.
And for Sun Devils fans? The message
is simple: Their quarterback is all in.
