Home / Sports / Texas Tech GM's $25M Roster Budget Shocks CFB
Texas Tech GM's $25M Roster Budget Shocks CFB
20 Nov
Summary
- James Blanchard built Texas Tech's team with an "open checkbook" transfer portal class.
- The team's overall roster budget reached $25 million this offseason.
- Blanchard transitioned from college football message boards to a prominent GM role.
James Blanchard, who previously promoted high school recruits on college football message boards, now leads personnel for a top-10 Texas Tech team. His innovative approach has resulted in an "open checkbook" transfer portal class, forming part of a staggering $25 million overall roster budget. This strategic investment has elevated the Red Raiders into contention for a Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff spot.
Blanchard's journey began in the mid-2010s, scouting and promoting players online. His efforts caught the attention of Baylor coaches, leading to an initial scouting role despite a significant pay cut and personal sacrifices. His NFL experience with the Carolina Panthers further refined his player evaluation and roster-building skills, insights he now applies at Texas Tech.
With McGuire granting him full personnel control, Blanchard has transformed the Texas Tech roster. The team's aggressive use of the transfer portal, fueled by substantial resources, has established them as a dominant force. Blanchard believes this strategy, while costly, is key to competing at the highest level and aims for a national championship within five years.
