Stanford did what the Indianapolis Colts couldn’t. Lure Andrew Luck out of retirement.

The university announced Saturday that Luck has been named general manager of Stanford football, effective immediately. He will oversee all aspects of the program at his alma mater.

“I am a product of this university, Nerd Nation; I love this place,” Luck, 35, said in a team press release. “I believe strongly in Stanford’s unique approach to athletics and academics and the opportunity to return our program to the top. Coach (Troy) Taylor is leading the team in the right direction and I can’t wait to work with him and the staff, and the best, smartest and toughest soccer players in the world.

From 2008 to 2011, the Cardinal lucked out, leading the team to a 31-7 record as the starting quarterback after he redshirted his freshman season. Before being selected No. 1 overall by the Colts in the 2012 NFL Draft, Luck finished second in Heisman Trophy voting twice (2010–11) and won the Maxwell Award, the Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year Award and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award after the 2011 season.

Indianapolis pushed aside future Hall of Famer Peyton Manning to make room for Luck, who was selected to the Pro Bowl four times in six seasons before shocking the Colts and retiring just before the 2019 season.

Luck earned his bachelor’s degree in architectural design in 2012 and his master’s degree in education from Stanford 11 years later.

“Andrew Luck is an example of the Stanford student-athlete,” said Stanford President Jonathan Levin. “I am excited for him to return to campus to lead our football program and ensure our student-athletes achieve excellence in the changing environment of college athletics.”

They are fortunate to work with Taylor, who will begin his third year as head coach in 2025, on recruiting and roster management. Additionally, he will oversee much of the business affairs, including fundraising, sponsorships, alumni relations and student-athlete support.

“He also brings a deep understanding of the college football landscape and community and an unparalleled passion for Stanford football,” said athletic director Bernard Muir. “I couldn’t imagine a person more qualified to lead our football program through an ever-evolving landscape, and I’m thrilled that Andrew has agreed to join our team. This change represents a very different way to operate our program and compete in an ever-evolving college football landscape.”

Stanford ended the 2024 season with a 34-31 loss to San Jose State on Friday. The Cardinals were 3-9 overall and 2-8 as a first-time member of the Atlantic Coast Conference.

–Field level media