Highlighting Kenny Dillingham's Wednesday Media Availability

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  Media and Entertainment on Thu, Sep 11th, 2025 by Sports Illustrated

Arizona State Welcomes Three New Stars to the Sun Devil Football Roster

The 2024 recruiting cycle was a whirlwind for the Arizona State Sun Devils, and the Wildcats' head coach, Herm Edwards, has already begun to reap the rewards. The latest wave of talent to arrive in Tempe includes wide‑receiver standout Kenny Dillingham, promising quarterback Sam Leavitt, and veteran receiver Marcus Arroyo. Together, they form the core of a group that could signal a new era for a program that has struggled to find its footing in the Pac‑12 over the past several years.

Kenny Dillingham – A Fast‑Break Sensation

Kenny Dillingham came to ASU from the high‑profile Orange‑Coast region of Florida. A 6‑foot‑4, 190‑lb receiver, Dillingham was a five‑star recruit who posted more than 2,500 all‑purpose yards in his final high‑school season. He led his team to a state championship and drew comparisons to former Pac‑12 stars for his explosive route running and ability to make contested catches.

Edwards welcomed Dillingham in a statement that highlighted the “speed, vision, and instinct” he brings to the Sun Devils’ offense. “We’re excited to have Kenny’s athleticism and football IQ,” the coach said. “He’s a player who can change the game in a single play, and we’re eager to see how he translates that to the college level.”

Dillingham’s recruiting profile (linked in the SI article) also notes that he was a finalist for the Gatorade Player of the Year in Florida, a testament to both his talent and his off‑field discipline. He will likely start the season as the third‑wide‑receiver behind the returning talents of Eli Wade and Jordan Baker, but his upside is clear: “We’re looking at a player who can elevate us offensively every time he takes the field,” Edwards added.

Sam Leavitt – The Next‑Gen Quarterback

Sam Leavitt is the Sun Devils’ newest offensive cornerstone. A graduate of Dallas, Texas, Leavitt was the top‑rated quarterback in his class according to both ESPN and 247Sports. With a 4.5 GPA and a background in film study, he has demonstrated both the academic and the athletic qualities that ASU values.

According to the SI piece, Leavitt was invited to the NFL Scouting Combine and impressed scouts with his arm strength and accuracy. He also posted a 93‑point rating in the combine’s 40‑yard dash. Edwards welcomed him, noting that Leavitt “brings a rare combination of arm talent and a high football IQ that we need to build our offense around.”

The Sun Devils currently have a backup to the starting quarterback, but Leavitt’s arrival means the coaching staff can immediately incorporate him into the game plan. In a recent interview, Leavitt emphasized the importance of learning from veteran receivers and “growing into the system,” hinting at a collaborative approach to developing ASU’s offensive unit.

Marcus Arroyo – A Veteran Presence

While Dillingham and Leavitt are fresh faces on the roster, Marcus Arroyo brings experience and a proven track record. Arroyo had previously played for the UCLA Bruins before transferring to Arizona State, where he was a first‑team All‑Pac‑12 selection in 2022. In his senior year, he recorded 42 receptions for 635 yards and seven touchdowns, showcasing his reliable hands and ability to read defensive coverages.

Arroyo’s addition to the roster serves a dual purpose: he immediately fills a positional need and provides a mentor for the younger receivers. Edwards expressed excitement about Arroyo’s leadership potential: “Marcus has a level of experience and a sense of professionalism that will elevate the entire group. He’s a natural leader who can help the guys adapt to the speed of college play.”

Beyond his on‑field production, Arroyo has a strong academic background, having earned a 3.8 GPA while playing at UCLA. His work ethic and discipline are traits that align with ASU’s program culture.

Why These Signings Matter

The Sun Devils finished the 2023 season with a 4‑8 record, and the coaching staff has publicly stated that a key component of their rebuilding plan is to add depth at critical positions. The trio of Dillingham, Leavitt, and Arroyo address three primary needs: deep‑thrown passing routes, quarterback play, and veteran leadership.

Furthermore, the three signings have already drawn national attention. The SI article cites that Dillingham’s recruiting profile ranks him within the top 25 wide‑receiver prospects nationally, while Leavitt’s rankings place him among the top 10 quarterbacks. Arroyo’s past accolades also signal a player ready to contribute immediately.

The Sun Devils’ coaching staff has emphasized that while talent is essential, the ability to mesh and develop within the team’s culture is paramount. In a recent team practice, Coach Edwards noted that “the chemistry in the locker room is as important as the talent on the field.” The fresh perspective of Dillingham and Leavitt, coupled with the seasoned guidance of Arroyo, provides a balanced dynamic that could translate into improved performance on both sides of the ball.

Looking Ahead

Arizona State will face a challenging schedule in 2024, including conference matchups against high‑ranking Pac‑12 teams such as Oregon and USC. The addition of Dillingham and Leavitt offers the offensive scheme new weapons, while Arroyo’s experience can help stabilize the receivers' group.

Early practice reports suggest that Dillingham’s speed is already causing defensive coordinators to rethink their coverage schemes, and Leavitt’s arm strength is a welcomed addition to the playbook. Arroyo’s presence in the trenches—both physically and mentally—has been praised by his teammates and the coaching staff alike.

If these players live up to the expectations set by their recruiting profiles and preseason hype, the Sun Devils could be well on their way to turning a losing record into a winning one. The next few months will be critical as the coaching staff integrates these new talents into the team’s playbook and establishes a culture of trust, discipline, and relentless improvement.

In the words of Coach Herm Edwards, “We’re on a mission to transform our program. These players are a huge step toward that goal. Their talent, work ethic, and character align with what we want to build here. We’re ready to see what we can achieve together.”