LSU’s quarterback search is heating up, but despite growing buzz around former five-star USC quarterback Husan Longstreet, sources indicate that Sam Leavitt remains firmly in Lane Kiffin’s plans. Longstreet was on campus at LSU this weekend, prompting speculation that his visit could signal a shift in priority at quarterback. However, insiders and reporting from the Locked On LSU YouTube page have made it clear that Longstreet’s presence does not eliminate LSU from the Sam Leavitt sweepstakes.
Sam Leavitt Is Still Very Much in LSU’s Plans
Longstreet’s visit allowed LSU’s staff to evaluate one of the more talented quarterbacks currently in the transfer portal. A former five-star recruit, Longstreet brings a high ceiling and significant upside, traits that make him an attractive option for a program searching for immediate offensive improvement. Still, according to insiders, LSU’s interest in Longstreet is more about preparation than a first option replacement. The Tigers are ensuring they are protected in the event that Leavitt chooses to commit elsewhere, whether that be to Miami, Tennessee, Oregon, or another program.
LSU’s urgency at quarterback stems from a noticeable decline in offensive production. According to Pro Football Sports Network, the Tigers posted a 76.1 offensive impact grade last season, a significant drop from the 83.2, 91.9, and 85.8 grades LSU recorded over the previous three years. By LSU standards, that regression is unacceptable, and it directly contributed to the decision to bring in Lane Kiffin. The Tigers cannot afford another season of offensive inconsistency, making the quarterback position the most critical to address this cycle.
Lane Kiffin’s Offensive Track Record
Kiffin’s reputation as an offensive guru is well-earned. From 2020 through 2025 at Ole Miss, his offenses consistently ranked inside the top 20 nationally. His best unit came in 2020 with an elite 89.4 offensive grade, while his 2025 offense finished 12th nationally with an 85.0 mark. That level of consistency is exactly what LSU is seeking as it attempts to return to national prominence and contend for championships in the SEC.
Leavitt’s recruitment has not been without complications. During his LSU visit, the Demond Williams situation unfolded, and it’s reasonable to believe that it may have impacted how Leavitt felt about the Tigers’ approach. That uncertainty could lead Leavitt to lock in elsewhere, with Miami, Tennessee, and Oregon all remaining potential landing spots. LSU’s staff is well aware of this possibility, which is why the Tigers are actively evaluating other options, such as Longstreet.
LSU Still Makes Sense for Leavitt
If Leavitt can put emotions aside and focus strictly on development, LSU under Lane Kiffin remains an ideal situation. Kiffin has a proven history of developing quarterbacks at an elite level. Last season, Jaxson Dart developed into a first-round NFL Draft pick under Kiffin’s guidance. This year, Kiffin took Division II transfer Trinidad Chambliss and helped him emerge as one of the most impactful quarterbacks in the country, earning a 90.3 PFSN quarterback impact grade. That mark ranked among the top five nationally, trailing only Diego Pavia, Fernando Mendoza, Julian Sayin, and Jayden Maiava, three of whom were Heisman finalists.
Ultimately, this recruitment has become a mutual necessity. LSU needs a quarterback who can immediately elevate the offense and deliver wins in 2026, while Sam Leavitt is searching for a system that can maximize his development and push him toward becoming a top NFL prospect. Husan Longstreet’s visit does not alter that dynamic; it simply underscores LSU’s need to have all options available for the game’s most important position. Lane Kiffin is determined to secure the right quarterback, and until a final decision is made, Sam Leavitt remains very much in the picture.
