ASU’s Sam Leavitt Turns Down $25M from Kentucky, Cements Legacy with Loyalty to Sun Devils
In an era of college football where loyalty often takes a backseat to lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt just flipped the narrative on its head. The rising star made headlines after turning down a staggering $25 million offer from the University of Kentucky, instead committing to a $15 million NIL deal to stay in Tempe. His message was crystal clear: “My loyalty lies with Arizona State—this is home.”
Leavitt’s decision has shocked the college football world. With programs across the country increasingly poaching top talent with eye-popping NIL packages, few expected the young quarterback to say no to a life-changing $25 million payday. But for Leavitt, it wasn’t just about the money—it was about legacy, loyalty, and belief in what ASU is building under head coach Kenny Dillingham.
“This isn’t just a program to me,” Leavitt told local reporters. “It’s a family. We’re building something special here. And no amount of money can replace the heart and pride I feel putting on the maroon and gold.”
The 6’2” quarterback, who transferred from Michigan State and quickly rose to stardom with the Sun Devils, has become a fan favorite for his on-field poise and off-field leadership. He threw for over 3,800 yards and 32 touchdowns last season, leading ASU to its first bowl appearance in three years.
Social media has exploded with praise for Leavitt’s choice. Fans and alumni flooded platforms with messages of admiration, calling him “the face of the program” and a “true Sun Devil.” The hashtags #ForksUp and #HeartOverHype have been trending on X (formerly Twitter) since the announcement.
In a college football landscape driven by massive deals and shifting allegiances, Sam Leavitt just proved that some players still play for the name on the front of the jersey—not the numbers in the contract.
