Arizona State University head football coach Kenny Dillingham has announced that freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt will miss the next two games as part of what the coach describes as a “personal development” program. This move has sparked considerable discussion within the ASU community, as fans and analysts speculate on what led to this decision and what it means for both Leavitt and the program as a whole.
During his weekly press conference, Dillingham addressed the media, explaining that Leavitt would be stepping away from football temporarily to focus on personal growth and development. “This is not a disciplinary issue in the traditional sense,” Dillingham clarified. “This is about ensuring that Sam takes the necessary time to mature as an individual and as a leader, both on and off the field.”
According to sources within the program, the decision was made after a series of conversations between Dillingham, the coaching staff, and Leavitt. The specific details surrounding what prompted the action remain unclear, but Dillingham emphasized that this was a proactive approach to help Leavitt develop qualities that extend beyond the football field.
Sam Leavitt, a highly-touted freshman from West Linn, Oregon, joined Arizona State with high expectations. Known for his athleticism, strong arm, and poise under pressure, Leavitt was considered one of the top quarterback recruits in the 2024 class. His commitment to ASU was seen as a significant win for Dillingham, who has been working diligently to rebuild the Sun Devils program in a competitive Pac-12 landscape.
Leavitt’s talent is undeniable, but like many young athletes transitioning to college football, there are challenges that come with balancing the pressures of academics, athletics, and personal life.
While Leavitt has shown flashes of brilliance in practice and during limited game action, sources suggest that the coaching staff identified areas where his off-field conduct and decision-making needed improvement. Dillingham’s personal development program appears to be designed to address these aspects of Leavitt’s growth as a student-athlete.
Dillingham has yet to provide full details about the personal development program Leavitt will be participating in, but it is likely to include elements of mentorship, leadership training, and possibly even counseling. Many collegiate programs across the country have begun implementing holistic approaches to player development, recognizing that mental and emotional well-being is as important as physical conditioning in shaping a successful athlete.
For Leavitt, this program may focus on time management, dealing with the pressures of being in the spotlight, and developing leadership qualities that will make him a more effective presence on and off the field. Additionally, the program could involve working with team counselors, attending leadership seminars, and engaging in community service initiatives—activities designed to help young athletes grow into responsible adults.
Dillingham expressed confidence in the program, noting, “Sometimes, stepping back is the best way to move forward. Sam has all the tools to be a great quarterback, but we want to make sure he’s developing as a person first.”
Leavitt’s absence from the next two games will undoubtedly impact the Sun Devils’ depth at quarterback. With the team already enduring a challenging season, this move could further complicate their plans, especially if the starting quarterback were to face any issues or injuries. Junior quarterback Trenton Bourguet, who has held the starting job for most of the season, will now be backed up by less experienced players, adding pressure to a team that has faced its share of struggles on offense.
However, Dillingham has made it clear that he values the long-term development of his players over short-term gains. By taking this bold step, he is sending a message to the rest of the team about the importance of accountability, personal growth, and character development. For a program like Arizona State, which is in the midst of a rebuilding phase, these values may be just as important as winning on the field.
The decision to sit Leavitt for two games has drawn mixed reactions. Some fans believe that Dillingham is making the right call, taking a long-term approach to player development rather than rushing Leavitt into action. “If this helps him grow into a better leader and person, it’s worth it,” one fan commented on social media. “We need a quarterback who can handle the pressure both on and off the field.”
Others, however, are concerned about the timing of the move, especially as the Sun Devils enter a critical stretch of the season. “This feels like a risky decision,” one analyst noted. “Leavitt is one of the most talented players on the roster, and benching him for two games could hurt the team in the short term. But if it helps him mature and leads to long-term success, it could be a gamble that pays off.”
For Leavitt, the next few weeks will be a period of reflection and growth. While missing game time is never easy for a competitor, this break could provide him with the opportunity to address any off-field issues and emerge as a more focused and mature leader for the Sun Devils. Dillingham’s support throughout this process will be crucial, as Leavitt navigates the challenges of being a high-profile athlete at a Division I program.
Ultimately, Dillingham’s bold decision to prioritize personal development over immediate on-field results speaks to his commitment to building a strong, sustainable program at Arizona State. If Leavitt can use this time away to grow and return to the team with a renewed sense of purpose, both he and the Sun Devils could benefit in the long run. For now, though, fans will have to wait and see how this move plays out for one of the program’s brightest young stars.
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