Arizona State Quarterback Sam Leavitt Projected as top-10 NFL Draft pick in 2026
TEMPE, AZ - Arizona State University quarterback Sam Leavitt is rapidly ascending draft boards, now projected as the ninth overall pick in ESPN’s initial 2026 NFL mock draft, released by analyst Field Yates. The projection places Leavitt in an elite tier of quarterback prospects and highlights the growing excitement surrounding the redshirt sophomore’s potential.
Yates’ mock draft, published before the upcoming college and pro seasons, forecasts Leavitt being selected by the Los Angeles Rams, who hold the ninth overall pick acquired from the Atlanta Falcons in a 2025 trade. The pick could position the Rams to secure a future successor to current quarterback Matthew Stafford, whose playing future beyond 2026 remains uncertain.
“It’s not clear whether Matthew stafford will be playing in 2026, but the Rams can add his heir apparent at the draft either way,” Yates wrote. “Leavitt is an innovator, showing exceptional poise, moxie and creativity under duress. The redshirt sophomore is a talented thrower and very strong runner. He had at least three passing touchdowns and zero interceptions in five of his final seven matchups last season, and he finished with 443 rushing yards on the year. L.A. can start thinking about the future under center with this top-10 pick via Atlanta.”
Leavitt’s performance in 2024, which saw him consistently deliver strong performances – including five games with at least three passing touchdowns and no interceptions – has drawn comparisons to Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix, a 2024 draft pick whose successful rookie season has raised expectations for young quarterbacks entering the league.
The 2026 quarterback class is shaping up to be particularly strong, with Yates projecting Texas’ arch Manning, South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, and Clemson’s cade Klubnik as the top three picks. Penn State’s Drew Allar is projected to be selected two spots after Leavitt, at No. 11 overall.ASU’s Jordyn tyson Also Projected in First Round
Leavitt isn’t the only Sun Devil expected to hear their name called early in the 2026 draft. Wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is projected as the first wide receiver off the board, slated to be selected at No. 20 overall – also by the Denver Broncos, joining Bo nix.
Yates notes that with Alabama’s Ryan Williams and Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith ineligible for the draft, Tyson emerges as the top receiver prospect. “The Broncos are well-stocked at moast spots on the roster, but putting another difference-making playmaker alongside Courtland Sutton, Marvin Mims Jr. and Evan Engram could lift the whole offense,” Yates wrote. “At 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds,Tyson is extremely comfortable with the ball in his hands and has very good instincts after the catch. He had five games with over 100 receiving yards in 2024 and joins leavitt to form one of the best QB-WR duos in college football this season.”
The projections highlight the potential for a important draft haul for Arizona State, fueled by the dynamic connection between Leavitt and Tyson.Both players are poised for a pivotal 2025 season that will undoubtedly be closely watched by NFL scouts.
