Andrew Luck, once one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in NFL history, has made an unexpected return to football. He is now the general manager of Stanford University’s football program, a role that comes with immense pressure and responsibility.
Luck’s journey began six years ago when he shocked the sports world by announcing his retirement from professional football. However, his decision was not without its costs. His former coach, Frank Reich, has since spoken about the pain and hard conversations they shared during Luck’s retirement.
Reich’s return to coaching came after a chance conversation with Luck, who offered him the position of interim head coach. The two made a pact that Reich would only stay for one season, but the reality is that Luck’s new role may be more challenging than either man anticipated.
As Stanford prepares to take on the Atlantic Coast Conference, they face significant challenges. The team has been struggling academically, and their transfer rate remains relatively low compared to other schools. Luck’s return has brought some much-needed energy to the program, but it remains to be seen whether his well of alumni support will be enough to turn things around.
Luck’s pitch to high school players, donors, and the college football world at large is centered around the rich history and network of Stanford University. He touts the university’s success in producing notable quarterbacks like Jim Plunkett and John Elway, as well as its reach across various industries.
Despite the pressure and stakes, Luck seems to be enjoying his new role. His arrival has been met with excitement from alumni and fans, who see him as a symbol of hope for the program’s future. However, there are concerns that Stanford may never win big in the NIL era, where top prospects prioritize lucrative deals over prestigious degrees.
For Luck, however, the pull of football remains strong. He was drawn back into the sport after his initial retirement, and he now finds himself trying to save a program that even he might not be able to save. His return is a testament to his passion for the game and his commitment to giving it his all.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6549209/2025/08/18/andrew-luck-stanford-indianapolis-colts