Sam Leavitt appeared to have settled his recruitment, but his commitment is now suddenly in question as negotiations continue behind the scenes.
After reports surfaced that the top transfer quarterback committed to LSU and Lane Kiffin, sources told On3 that no paperwork had been signed and that Tennessee remain firmly in the race.
Vols officials and Leavitt’s camp have reportedly stayed in "regular contact" throughout Monday, and were never informed that he was LSU-bound. Negotiations are ongoing with Tennessee preparing one final push offer for Leavitt and his representatives.
This adds an interesting wrinkle to the situation as Kiffin is in desperate need of securing a quarterback. The market to land Leavitt has climbed into the $4 million to $5 million range, and was fueled by competition in a three-team battle between LSU, Tennessee and Miami.
Even with momentum trending toward LSU, Tennessee coach Josh Heupel and his staff have continued to push, as the program seeks clarity at quarterback with Joey Aguilar’s 2026 eligibility uncertain.
Leavitt left his Miami visit Sunday without committing and returned to Arizona to deliberate with his camp. Landing him would be significant for Kiffin, who is still seeking a clear QB1 despite adding Elon transfer Landen Clark.
The former Arizona State Sun Devils star has thrown for 4,652 career yards with 46 total touchdowns, leading ASU to a Big 12 title and College Football Playoff berth in 2024 after beginning his career at Michigan State Spartans. LSU believed it had won the race, but the finish line has yet to be crossed.
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