In a significant move for the Nebraska Cornhuskers football program, Pat Stewart has been appointed as the new general manager under head coach Matt Rhule. Nebraska announced on Tuesday that Stewart, who has served as the New England Patriots’ director of pro personnel over the last two years, will be stepping into this pivotal role.
Previously, from 2020 to 2022, Stewart was the director of player personnel for the Carolina Panthers during Rhule’s tenure with the team. His new responsibilities at Nebraska will encompass managing the football roster and player acquisition strategies, which include high school recruiting, scouting potential transfer portal recruits, evaluating talent, and focusing on retention strategies.
As college football continues to evolve toward a structure resembling that of the NFL, emphasis on advanced roster management and player retention has become crucial. Coach Rhule expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Pat Stewart will help us manage our roster and operate in a way that will give Nebraska the opportunity to compete as one of the elite programs in the country.” He also highlighted the benefit of their previous collaboration and anticipated Stewart’s integration into the Nebraska Football family.
Stewart’s experience in professional football is extensive. He initially commenced his NFL career with the Patriots from 2007 through 2017, later joining the Philadelphia Eagles for the 2018-19 seasons, before moving to the Panthers. He recently returned to the Patriots in 2023 prior to this new appointment with Nebraska.
This strategic addition is expected to strengthen Nebraska’s competitive edge, aiming to develop an elite collegiate football program comparable to pro-level standards.
