Lane Kiffin and LSU appear to have their quarterback situation settled for 2026.
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Former Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt is expected to sign with LSU, according to multiple reports. Leavitt was widely viewed as the top quarterback available in the transfer portal and drew interest from several programs, including Miami, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
Among portal options, Leavitt stood out for both experience and production. He helped lead Arizona State to a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024, throwing for 2,885 yards with 24 touchdowns and six interceptions. His 2025 season was cut short by a foot injury, but his body of work kept him at the top of LSU's list.
The Tigers needed an answer. Starter Garrett Nussmeier is graduating, and backup Michael Van Buren is transferring to South Florida, leaving the Tigers without an experienced quarterback on the projected roster.
Sources: Arizona State transfer quarterback Sam Leavitt is expected to sign with LSU. Leavitt’s pick comes after trips to Kentucky, Tennessee and Miami. He led ASU to the College Football Playoff in 2024 and has 4,652 career passing yards and 36 touchdowns. pic.twitter.com/sAol6XDodc
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 12, 2026
LSU also explored a possible move for Demond Williams Jr. from Washington, but that situation unraveled as Williams ultimately stayed put after a chaotic portal episode.
Leavitt arrives in Baton Rouge with two years of eligibility remaining. A strong 2026 season could quickly push him into NFL Draft conversations, a scenario that would likely suit both player and program just fine.
