Tempe, AZ, December 12, 2025
Arizona State University football is undergoing a notable transition as starting left tackle Josh Atkins enters the NCAA transfer portal. His departure, along with quarterback Sam Leavitt and defensive back Xavion Alford, raises questions about the team’s future following a solid season. Head coach Kenny Dillingham emphasizes the importance of utilizing the transfer portal to rebuild the roster and maintain competitiveness, highlighting the significance of community support in this period of change.
Tempe, AZ – Arizona State University (ASU) football is undergoing a significant transformation as starting left tackle Josh Atkins enters the NCAA transfer portal. Atkins, a 6-foot-3, 320-pound offensive lineman from Arlington, Texas, has become a pivotal player for the Sun Devils, having started 26 games over the past two seasons since transferring from the University of Hawaii and Houston. His decision, made public on December 12, 2025, marks a critical moment for ASU’s football program as the team prepares for its next chapter.
This development is part of a broader trend affecting ASU’s football roster, with other key departures including quarterback Sam Leavitt, who also declared his intention to transfer, and standout defensive back Xavion Alford, who has announced his entry into the NFL Draft. These transitions come on the heels of ASU’s solid 9-4 season, which culminated in a hard-fought 39-31 loss to Texas in the Peach Bowl, indicating both the potential and challenges the team faces as it prepares for the future.
Implications for ASU Athletics
Atkins’ exit leaves a considerable void in the offensive line, a critical area for protecting the quarterback and establishing a successful running game. The Sun Devils’ coaching staff will need to explore opportunities in the transfer portal and recruitment to fill the gaps left by these departing players. This strategy is essential for maintaining the team’s competitive edge in both the Pac-12 and the national landscape.
Coaching Commitment to Growth
Head coach Kenny Dillingham is emphasizing the importance of utilizing the NCAA transfer portal as a strategic tool. He views this as a crucial aspect of rebuilding and fortifying the roster. The focus is on identifying and attracting new talent that can seamlessly integrate into the existing system and contribute to the resurgence of ASU football.
Community and Economic Impact
The ongoing transitions within the ASU football program resonate beyond the team. The university’s athletic department serves as an integral part of Tempe’s community identity and the broader Phoenix area. Local businesses, fans, and former players are all invested in the program’s success. As the Sun Devils seek new talent, it offers opportunities for community engagement and growth through events, partnerships, and sponsorships that support a vibrant athletic culture.
Participation in Competitive Landscape
Navigating the transfer portal successfully highlights the need for agility and responsiveness in collegiate athletics. The strategy to attract players from the portal reflects a broader trend in college football, where institutions must adapt swiftly to maintain competitiveness. This approach not only bolsters ASU’s roster but also embraces the entrepreneurial spirit of college athletics, where competition, innovation, and strategic planning drive success.
Future Directions for ASU Football
As ASU looks ahead, the commitment to building a strong football program remains unwavering. With the transfer portal serving as a critical linchpin in this pursuit, the Sun Devils are focusing on core principles of community resilience and athletic excellence. The expectation is that the next season will not only showcase fresh talent but also reaffirm ASU’s position in college football.
In summary, the departures of key players like Josh Atkins set the stage for a transformative period for ASU football. Head coach Kenny Dillingham’s strategic focus on the transfer portal, combined with community support, aims to strengthen the team’s future. As the Sun Devils recruit and rebuild, fans and local stakeholders are encouraged to remain engaged and support their student athletes moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Josh Atkins?
Josh Atkins is a 6-foot-3, 320-pound offensive lineman from Arlington, Texas, who transferred to Arizona State University from the University of Hawaii and Houston. He started 26 games over the past two seasons for the Sun Devils.
What is the NCAA transfer portal?
The NCAA transfer portal is a database that allows college athletes to declare their intent to transfer to another institution. It provides a platform for athletes to explore opportunities at different schools while maintaining their eligibility.
How does Josh Atkins’ departure affect ASU’s football team?
Atkins’ departure leaves a significant gap in the offensive line, a critical position for protecting the quarterback and establishing the running game. ASU will need to recruit or promote players to fill this role and maintain the team’s performance.
What is ASU’s strategy for rebuilding the roster?
Head coach Kenny Dillingham has emphasized the importance of utilizing the transfer portal to strengthen the team. He stated that replacing departing players with portal additions is essential for maintaining depth and competitiveness.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Player Departure | Josh Atkins, starting left tackle for ASU, enters the NCAA transfer portal after 26 starts over two seasons. |
| Other Departures | Quarterback Sam Leavitt and defensive back Xavion Alford also declare intentions to transfer or enter the NFL Draft. |
| Season Performance | ASU achieved a 9-4 record, including a Peach Bowl appearance, in the 2025 season. |
| Coaching Strategy | Head coach Kenny Dillingham emphasizes utilizing the transfer portal to rebuild and strengthen the roster. |
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