Former Oregon defensive lineman My’Keil Gardner has made headlines by signing with Arizona State after entering the NCAA transfer portal. This move marks a significant step in Gardner’s career as he seeks new opportunities on the field.
My’Keil Gardner’s Journey to Arizona State
Gardner entered the NCAA transfer portal on Thursday, a decision that has already begun to pay off. Coming off his second season with the Ducks, Gardner played sparingly during his time at Oregon, not appearing in any games during the 2024 season. In fact, he only saw action in three games during the 2023 season, where he recorded one tackle and subsequently took a redshirt.
Before joining the Ducks, Gardner was a highly regarded recruit, ranked as a three-star prospect. He was the No. 442 overall recruit in the 2023 recruiting class and stood out as the No. 48 defensive lineman in the nation. Hailing from Peoria, Arizona, he was also recognized as the No. 10 overall player in his home state. With this impressive background, Arizona State fans are eager to see how Gardner will contribute to the Sun Devils’ defense.
Exciting Times for Arizona State Football
The excitement surrounding Arizona State football is palpable, especially with the recent signing of My’Keil Gardner. Head coach Kenny Dillingham is experiencing a wave of positivity as he builds his program. The addition of Gardner is not just a boost to the defensive line but also a sign of the Sun Devils’ commitment to strengthening their roster.
In addition to Gardner’s signing, Sam Leavitt, Arizona State’s starting quarterback, recently announced his return to the team. Leavitt’s decision to stay put, bolstered by a new NIL deal with the Sun Angel Collective, is a huge win for Dillingham and the Sun Devils. After a stellar season in which he threw for 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns, Leavitt’s return signals a promising future for the program.
Leavitt’s Impact on Arizona State
Leavitt’s impact on the team cannot be overstated. His performance was instrumental in leading Arizona State to a Big 12 championship and their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. With an On3 NIL Valuation of $3 million, Leavitt chose to take fewer dollars to remain with the Sun Devils, demonstrating his commitment to the program and faith in Dillingham’s vision.
“I want to have a statue here and make Arizona State something that it’s never been before,” Leavitt declared, showcasing his passion and dedication to the team. This kind of enthusiasm is infectious and sets a strong tone for the upcoming seasons.
Building Momentum in the Dillingham Era
With the recent addition of My’Keil Gardner and Leavitt’s commitment, Arizona State is clearly gaining momentum in the Dillingham era. The combination of a solid quarterback and a bolstered defensive line creates a promising foundation for the Sun Devils as they aim for success in the competitive landscape of college football.
The excitement surrounding the program is not just about individual players but the overall direction in which Dillingham is leading the team. With each new signing, fans are left wondering: could this be the year Arizona State finally breaks through and makes a deep run in the postseason?
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Arizona State?
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Arizona State to see how they continue to build their roster. The addition of Gardner is a clear signal that the Sun Devils are serious about competing at a high level. The combination of young talent and experienced players like Leavitt creates a dynamic environment that could lead to exciting results on the field.
Furthermore, the commitment from both Gardner and Leavitt showcases a growing trend in college football where players are increasingly valuing the culture and vision of a program over immediate financial gain. This shift could have lasting implications for how teams recruit and retain talent in the future.
In conclusion, the recent developments at Arizona State paint a bright picture for the future of the program. With My’Keil Gardner joining the ranks and Sam Leavitt returning, the Sun Devils are poised for an exciting season ahead. Fans have every reason to be optimistic as they look forward to seeing how these players will help shape the team’s identity in the coming years. The stage is set, and the anticipation is building—let the countdown to kickoff begin!
