Background and Appointment

Andrew Luck earned his place in Stanford history as a two-time Heisman Trophy runner-up (2010-11) and led the Cardinal to a 31-7 record from 2009-2011.[1] A 2012 graduate with a degree in architectural design, Luck returned to Stanford in 2023 to complete his master's degree in education, maintaining his deep connection to the university.

In November 2024, Stanford President Jonathan Levin announced Luck's appointment as the university's first Football General Manager, a newly-created position designed to modernize the program's operations.[1] Luck was granted significant authority, including the power to hire and fire the head coach, reflecting the university's confidence in his leadership abilities and vision for the program's future.

Responsibilities and Strategic Vision

Luck's role encompasses comprehensive oversight of the Cardinal Football program, including recruiting, roster management, coaching staff decisions, fundraising, alumni relations, and student-athlete support.[1][4] He works closely with head coach Frank Reich and athletics leadership to navigate the complexities of modern college football, particularly Stanford's transition to the ACC.

Luck has articulated a clear vision for Stanford's return to prominence, emphasizing the university's unique approach to combining academic and athletic excellence.[1] He has actively engaged alumni nationwide, organizing pre-game gatherings in cities from Honolulu to Miami, and personally participating in recruiting and season ticket sales efforts to rebuild community support for the program.

Early Leadership Decisions and Impact

In March 2025, Luck made his first major administrative decision by dismissing head coach Troy Taylor after two seasons, citing the need for change and referencing university investigations into Taylor's conduct.[2] This decisive action demonstrated Luck's willingness to make difficult personnel decisions in service of the program's long-term success.

Luck subsequently hired Frank Reich as head coach and has worked to inject renewed energy into the program.[3] He has become the public face of Stanford Football, traveling extensively to reconnect with alumni and rebuild the fan base's confidence in the Cardinal's ability to compete at the highest levels of college football.