Kiffin focused on QB Leavitt's transition into LSU offense - ESPN

TAMPA, Fla. — LSU coach Lane Kiffin cast an optimistic projection for quarterback Sam Leavitt's return from a foot injury, saying the Arizona State transfer is now windmill dunking and projects as a first-round NFL draft pick.

Leavitt transferred in the winter, and his Lisfranc surgery back in November forced him to miss spring practice at LSU. Kiffin said his concerns have shifted from Leavitt's health to his quarterback's transition into LSU's offensive system.

«I'm not worried about the health, I'm just concerned, like I would be with any first-time quarterback, about his transition with us and getting used to us,» Kiffin told ESPN. «Game day with the guy, experience matters.»

Leavitt broke out in 2024 at Arizona State and showed the promise to be one of the country's top quarterbacks. He led Arizona State to the Big 12 title and threw for 2,885 yards, 24 touchdowns and six interceptions. The Sun Devils reached the College Football Playoff and took Texas to overtime there.

Leavitt's challenge now is regaining that form after an uneven 2025, as he injured the foot against Baylor in September and never found his 2024 form. In seven games, he had 10 touchdown passes and three interceptions, and his completion percentage dipped 1 percentage point to 60.7%.

Kiffin posited an interesting theory about preparing a quarterback, noting that Trinidad Chambliss developed into a star at Ole Miss after not playing in the spring. He also didn't get first-team reps in summer camp.

«I do believe it's not the same that it used to be,» Kiffin said of the transition. «It's the in-helmet communication. I think it's an easier transition now to play, whether it's a younger quarterback or just a transfer quarterback. So hopefully that's the