Notre Dame has identified Texas Tech general manager James Blanchard as its top target to fill the football program’s general manager position, according to multiple sources. The move signals the Fighting Irish’s intent to bolster their administrative infrastructure under head coach Marcus Freeman, aligning with a growing trend of Power 5 programs adopting NFL-style front-office roles to optimize recruiting, roster management, and NIL operations.
Blanchard, who joined Texas Tech in 2021, has played a pivotal role in reshaping the Red Raiders’ football operations. His expertise in talent evaluation, strategic recruitment planning, and navigating the transfer portal has been credited with elevating Texas Tech’s competitiveness in the Big 12. Prior to his stint in Lubbock, Blanchard held personnel roles at UCF and Marshall, building a reputation as a forward-thinking organizer capable of balancing traditional and modern roster-building methods.
Notre Dame’s pursuit reflects a desire to modernize its approach amid an evolving college football landscape. The GM position, increasingly critical nationwide, focuses on streamlining roster construction, managing scholarship allocations, and coordinating NIL collectives—areas where Blanchard’s experience aligns with the Irish’s needs.
While terms have not been finalized, sources indicate discussions are progressing. If hired, Blanchard would join a Notre Dame program aiming to reclaim playoff contention after a 10-3 season. Texas Tech, meanwhile, would face a significant loss in a key architect of its recent resurgence.
This potential hire underscores the escalating value of front-office executives in college athletics, as programs prioritize structural innovation to sustain success. An official announcement could follow in the coming days.
