Sam Leavitt's NFL Draft Dilemma: Stay or Go? The Arizona State quarterback's journey to the NFL is a complex one, with surgery looming and a decision to be made. But what factors will influence his choice? Let's explore the key considerations.
The Surgery and Recovery: Leavitt's undisclosed injury, which he played through for much of the season, will require surgery. Coach Kenny Dillingham confirms this, stating, 'He’s gotta get surgery, he’s gotta take care of himself. I’ll probably give him a couple weeks.' This recovery period is crucial for his health and future prospects.
NFL Draft Prospects: Leavitt's draft position has been a topic of discussion. Initially, he was projected as a top-10 pick by ESPN's Field Yates and top-20 by The Athletic's Nick Baumgardner. However, a disappointing performance against Mississippi State and the lingering injury impacted his standing. As of October 29, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. ranked him seventh among signal callers, and PFF placed him at No. 54 overall. These rankings indicate a potential drop in draft status.
Monetary Considerations: Money talks, and Leavitt's NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) value is significant. Early in the season, his valuation was estimated at $2.7-3.1 million, according to On3 Sports. After the surgery news, it dropped to $2 million. Interestingly, this figure still surpasses the earnings of the 39th pick in the 2025 draft in Year 1. The earlier valuation placed him in the 25-31 range, a late first-round pick.
Partnerships and Merchandise: Leavitt's partnerships with brands like Adidas, Powerade, and Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, as well as his top-10 ranking in NIL Store sales for August, showcase his marketability. His merchandise sales benefit his teammates, adding a layer of team-building to his potential departure.
Team Dynamics: The talent around Leavitt is another factor. With Jordyn Tyson and Cam Skattebo potentially entering the draft, Leavitt might face a unique challenge. The absence of these key players could lead to a shift in team dynamics, and the emergence of candidates like Cam Dyer and Jake Fette might bring new competition for the starting quarterback role.
Decision-Making Process: Leavitt's decision will be influenced by these factors and more. The surgery, draft prospects, money, team dynamics, and personal goals will all play a role in his choice. The question remains: will he stay at Arizona State or make the leap to the NFL? The answer lies in the delicate balance of these considerations.
