What's Happening?
Florida State University has announced the appointment of John Garrett as the Deputy Athletics Director and General Manager of Player Personnel. This newly created position aims to oversee football roster
construction, player evaluation, recruiting operations, and NIL integration. Garrett, who previously served as General Manager of Player Personnel at Duke University, will report directly to Michael Alford, Vice President and Director of Athletics at FSU. Garrett's role is designed to align FSU's football program with an NFL-style operational model to maximize competitive success. His extensive experience includes strategic planning and player personnel management, having contributed to Duke's 17-game wins and the 2025 ACC championship. Garrett's previous tenure at FSU saw the Seminoles achieve a 23-4 record, including a perfect 13-0 regular season in 2023. His NFL experience spans 18 years, including roles with the Dallas Cowboys, Cincinnati Bengals, Arizona Cardinals, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of John Garrett signifies Florida State University's commitment to adapting to the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly in football. By implementing an NFL-style operational model, FSU aims to enhance its competitive edge in recruiting and player development. This strategic move is crucial as college football programs face increasing complexity in roster management due to NIL deals and transfer portal dynamics. Garrett's expertise in player evaluation and operational leadership is expected to streamline FSU's football operations, allowing coaches to focus on on-field performance while ensuring sustainable roster construction. This approach could set a precedent for other collegiate programs seeking to balance competitive ambition with long-term program health.
What's Next?
Under Garrett's leadership, Florida State Football will operate with a clear division of responsibilities between on-field coaching and off-field operations. The Deputy AD/GM of Player Personnel will lead all aspects of roster construction, including high school recruiting strategy, transfer portal acquisition, and scholarship allocation. The integration of NIL, player evaluation, and recruiting analytics into a single operational framework will ensure alignment and competitive efficiency. Garrett's collaborative efforts with head coach Mike Norvell aim to build a championship-caliber team that consistently competes for titles. This restructuring reflects FSU's proactive adaptation to ongoing changes in college athletics.
