BREAKING: Arizona State Quarterback Sam Leavitt Rejects Major NIL Offer, Commits to Finish College Career in Tempe
In a bold and unexpected move, Arizona State University quarterback Sam Leavitt has reportedly declined a significant Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) offer from the University of Tennessee, opting instead to remain with the Sun Devils and complete his college football career in Tempe. The attempted recruitment by Tennessee is being described as a clear case of tampering, as they tried to entice Leavitt into entering the NCAA transfer portal with a massive NIL deal.
Sources close to the situation revealed that Tennessee presented Leavitt with an eye-popping $8.7 million NIL package—more than double his current deal at Arizona State. The offer, which was intended to lure him away from ASU for the upcoming season, reportedly included endorsements, sponsorships, and other financial incentives tied to his potential move to the SEC program. Despite the lucrative nature of the proposal, Leavitt stood firm in his loyalty to the Sun Devils, turning down the offer and choosing continuity over cash.
Leavitt’s decision comes as a surprise to many in the college football world, especially in an era where NIL money has become a major factor in recruiting and transfer decisions. Many star athletes have made similar jumps in recent years, trading team allegiance for higher financial rewards. But Leavitt is taking a different path—demonstrating a commitment not only to his teammates and coaches but also to the values and goals he has set during his time at ASU.
Insiders close to the ASU program say Leavitt’s choice is not just a personal decision but a message to the broader college football community. “He’s all in on what we’re building here,” said one ASU staff member. “Sam is the kind of leader who wants to finish what he started. He believes in his teammates, and he believes in the future of Sun Devil football.”
Leavitt’s loyalty has earned him respect both inside and outside the locker room. Teammates have praised his integrity and determination, citing his leadership as a key factor in ASU’s recent strides on the field. While turning down such a sizable NIL offer might seem unwise from a financial standpoint, Leavitt appears focused on long-term goals—both in terms of athletic development and potential NFL opportunities.
This incident also raises broader concerns about NIL regulations and tampering within the NCAA. While NIL is intended to empower student-athletes, the increasing number of high-dollar offers being used to influence transfer decisions has raised questions about oversight and fairness in the process.
Still, for now, Sam Leavitt remains a Sun Devil. And in a college football landscape increasingly shaped by money, his decision stands as a powerful statement about loyalty, legacy, and belief in a team’s vision.
