Coaches, GMs Name Top Newcomer For LSU

by Staff Reporter

April 9, 20260 Comments

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

A recent ESPN article by Billy Tucker names top newcomers for every SEC team and "what coaches, GMs are saying."

For LSU, transfer quarterback Sam Leavitt from Arizona State was identified as a critical component to the Tigers' success in 2026.

quote:
LSU Tigers

QB Sam Leavitt (Arizona State transfer)

Why: Leavitt led Arizona State to a Big 12 championship in 2024 and is expected to be an X factor for LSU's 2026 College Football Playoff ambitions. Much of Leavitt's offseason hype is based off his 2024 season in which he was one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football accounting for 29 offensive touchdowns while throwing for 2,885 yards and rushing for 443 yards. His follow-up in Tempe was cut short by a foot injury and ultimately required season-ending surgery which has limited his spring reps. Leavitt played in only seven games and did an impressive job toughing it out against eventual Big 12 champion Texas Tech, throwing for 319 yards and leading a decisive 75-yard touchdown drive in a 26-22 upset. LSU reportedly invested $5 million to secure his services, making him the crown jewel of new coach Lane Kiffin's No. 1-ranked transfer portal class. After Brian Kelly's firing following a disappointing 5-3 start, LSU needed a proven winner who could immediately restore championship expectations.

What to expect: Perhaps no transfer portal quarterback has higher expectations this fall than Leavitt. The same goes for Kiffin. However, this could be the perfect marriage if two things happen -- Leavitt stays healthy and he increases his completion percentage. In two years as a starter, he has only completed 61% of his passes. He's an exciting riverboat gambler who will take risks, but he also make spectacular plays. His ability to create off-platform throws while keeping his eyes downfield under pressure should flourish in Kiffin's system. The foot injury that ended his 2025 season remains a concern, but his gutsy performance against Texas Tech while injured showed his toughness. With elite left tackle Jordan Seaton protecting his blind side and an improved offensive line, Leavitt has first-round potential and the Tigers hold CFP capabilities.

What they're saying: "Sam is a very talented player who brings a great deal of experience and success at a high level to our offense. He's a natural leader who has done a really nice job of mentoring our younger quarterbacks despite his limitations due to the foot injury this spring. Even though he hasn't been able to practice much, he's still done a great job with his mental preparation in meetings, film study and walk-throughs. He's the veteran in a very talented quarterback room and we are very excited to have all three of those new quarterbacks." -- Kiffin

Filed Under: LSU Football