The article from The New York Times explores the transformation of college sports, highlighting the growing significance of the general manager role within athletic programs. With the introduction of name, image, and likeness (N.I.L.) rules and unlimited use of the transfer portal, college sports have begun to mirror professional sports more closely. This shift demands a new approach to player management, where general managers are tasked with evaluating talent not only on performance metrics but also on their monetary value. The article notes how this role allows head coaches to focus on on-field tactics while general managers handle recruiting, player payments, and coordination with donor collectives, reshaping the traditional dynamics within college athletics.

Key Points:

• The rise of the general manager role in college sports coincides with significant changes such as N.I.L. payments and the transfer portal.
• General managers take on player evaluation, recruitment, and coordination with donors, allowing coaches to concentrate on strategy.
• Many college teams have adopted general managers, with eight of the twelve teams in the latest college football playoffs employing them.
• The job requires a departure from traditional recruiting practices, focusing on financial implications as much as athletic performance.
• The role represents a shift in the culture of college athletics, reflecting a more professional approach to managing teams and players.
  Link to Article