Over five years after his unexpected retirement from the NFL, Andrew Luck is coming back to football, this time as the general manager of the Stanford Cardinal. Luck's hiring comes after Stanford concluded the 2024 season with a disappointing 3-9 record under head coach Troy Taylor.
Expressing his deep connection to the university, Luck stated, "I'm a product of this university, of Nerd Nation. I love this place. I strongly believe in Stanford’s unique blend of athletics and academics, and I'm excited about the opportunity to help elevate our program back to its peak. Coach Taylor has the team moving in the right direction, and I’m eager to collaborate with him, the staff, and the exceptional student-athletes here."
Luck's abrupt departure from the NFL prior to the 2019 season left the Indianapolis Colts scrambling for a replacement. Citing numerous injuries sustained during his career, the then 29-year-old quarterback chose to step away from the game. Since then, he has maintained a low profile, with occasional appearances at national championships and on the Stanford sidelines.
In his new role, Luck will work alongside Coach Taylor to strengthen the roster. He will also collaborate with the athletic department and university leadership on various initiatives, including fundraising, alumni relations, sponsorships, student-athlete support, and enhancing the stadium experience.
Stanford athletic director Bernard Muir praised Luck’s appointment, highlighting his exceptional record as a student-athlete and his profound understanding of the college football landscape. Muir expressed confidence in Luck's ability to navigate the evolving challenges of college football and emphasized the significance of this new approach to managing the program.
Considered the most outstanding quarterback to emerge from Stanford since John Elway, Luck boasts impressive collegiate statistics. In 2010, he led the nation with 3,338 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, followed by 3,517 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2011. Under his leadership, the Cardinal achieved a 12-1 record in 2010, winning the Orange Bowl, and an 11-2 record in 2011, narrowly losing the Fiesta Bowl. The program has struggled to replicate that success in recent years, failing to secure at least six wins since 2018.
