Arizona State standout quarterback Sam Leavitt has dramatically flipped his commitment to the Alabama Crimson Tide, turning his back on a heated pursuit from the Texas Longhorns and other powerhouse programs. The dual-threat signal-caller, widely regarded as the top overall prospect in the 2026 transfer portal, made the stunning announcement amid swirling rumors of massive NIL deals and intense recruiting battles. This flip not only bolsters Alabama’s quarterback room but instantly positions the Crimson Tide as a formidable force in the revamped SEC, where rivalries are already at a boiling point.
Leavitt’s journey to this moment has been anything but ordinary. After leading Arizona State to a Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024 with impressive stats—including over 2,800 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and low turnovers—he battled injuries in 2025 before entering the portal. His recruitment turned into a nationwide frenzy, with visits to programs like Kentucky, LSU, Tennessee, and Miami. Texas, fresh off their SEC transition and hungry for a veteran QB to challenge Alabama’s dominance, appeared to be in pole position at times. Yet, in a classic case of “Roll Tide” magic, Alabama swooped in with a compelling vision of legacy, elite coaching, and a path to national contention.
The decision to reject Texas adds an extra layer of drama to this saga. The Longhorns, now bitter SEC rivals to Alabama, had been aggressively courting Leavitt as a potential game-changer for their 2026 roster. Sources close to the recruitment suggest Texas offered a lucrative package, but Leavitt ultimately chose the Crimson Tide’s storied tradition and the opportunity to compete in the toughest conference in college football. This snub is sure to fuel the growing Alabama-Texas rivalry, with fans already buzzing about future showdowns where Leavitt could be under center for the Tide.
Alabama’s quarterback situation heading into 2026 had been a question mark following recent departures and draft decisions, but Leavitt’s arrival changes everything. With two years of eligibility remaining, the 6-foot-2, 205-pound gunslinger brings proven production, poise in the pocket, and dynamic scrambling ability that fits perfectly into the Tide’s pro-style offense. His low interception rate and ability to extend plays make him an immediate upgrade, giving Alabama a high-upside leader who could orchestrate deep playoff runs and contend for championships.
This commitment is more than just a roster addition—it’s a statement. In an era dominated by the transfer portal and NIL, Leavitt’s choice to join Alabama over Texas and other suitors underscores the Crimson Tide’s enduring pull. The 2026 season now looks dramatically different, with Alabama suddenly boasting one of the most talented and experienced quarterbacks in the country. Expect the hype train to accelerate as Tuscaloosa prepares for a new era under center.
Leave a Reply