ESPN REPORT: In a move that adds depth and experience to their quarterback room, the Arizona State Sun Devils have announced the addition of…
…veteran transfer quarterback Carter Reeves, a seasoned signal-caller from the University of Cincinnati. This move marks a significant step for the Sun Devils as they continue to rebuild under head coach Kenny Dillingham and solidify their identity in the competitive landscape of the Big 12 Conference.
Reeves, a redshirt senior with three years of collegiate experience, brings a steady hand and a high football IQ to a young and evolving Arizona State offense. Known for his poise under pressure and command of the huddle, Reeves appeared in 22 games for Cincinnati, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 21 touchdowns while maintaining a career completion rate of 64%. Though not a headline-grabbing superstar, his consistency and leadership are expected to be invaluable assets for the Sun Devils heading into the 2025 season.
Arizona State’s quarterback room has seen significant turnover in recent years, with younger players cycling in and out, injuries hampering development, and transfers reshaping the depth chart. The addition of Reeves provides a much-needed stabilizing presence. While Dillingham has yet to name a starter for the fall, insiders believe that Reeves’ experience and ability to read defenses will give him a legitimate shot at winning the starting job—or at the very least, mentoring younger quarterbacks like redshirt freshman Jalen Wilson and sophomore Malik Trent.
In a statement released by the team, Dillingham said, “Carter is the kind of guy who brings a lot more than just stats. He’s been through the highs and lows of college football and understands what it means to lead a team. His approach to preparation, the way he commands a locker room, and his football mind—those are qualities you can’t teach. He’s going to make everyone around him better.”
For Reeves, the transfer offers a fresh start and a final chance to make an impact at the collegiate level. At Cincinnati, he was caught in a rotation of quarterbacks and dealt with coaching changes that often left the offense in flux. Despite flashes of brilliance—including a four-touchdown performance against Houston in 2023—he never quite cemented his role as a full-time starter. Still, his tape impressed Arizona State’s offensive staff, who see Reeves as a perfect fit for their spread-option attack.
Reeves himself sounded energized about the move in an interview with ESPN. “I’ve been through a lot, and I’m thankful for everything Cincinnati gave me, but this is a new chapter,” he said. “Coach Dillingham runs an offense that really suits my strengths—quick reads, high tempo, smart decisions. I’m here to compete, to contribute, and to help this team win in any way I can.”
The Sun Devils finished the 2024 season at 5–7, missing bowl eligibility by a single win. However, the latter half of the season saw marked improvement in offensive execution, particularly in the passing game. With the offensive line returning most of its starters and the wide receiver corps anchored by junior standout Tariq Wiggins, the infrastructure is in place for a more balanced and dynamic offense.
Still, questions remain—especially at quarterback. Wilson showed promise in limited action last season, but his inexperience was evident. Trent has a strong arm but struggled with turnovers. In Reeves, Arizona State gains someone who can either take the reins or elevate the competition, pushing the young quarterbacks to new levels.
For fans, the addition of Reeves signals a sense of urgency and maturity. Dillingham’s strategy appears clear: surround young talent with proven leadership, stabilize key positions, and create a culture of competition that raises the floor of the entire team.
With fall camp approaching, all eyes will be on Tempe as the Sun Devils enter a crucial phase of their rebuild. Whether Reeves emerges as the starter or serves as a mentor, his presence alone is a reminder that Arizona State is done looking back—and focused entir
ely on what’s next.