“Is Recruiting dead? Arizona state Coach Sparks Controversy with Bold Claim!”
college football recruitment strategies, athlete retention programs, modern sports team dynamics
—————–

In a thought-provoking statement during the Big 12 Conference Media Days, Kenny Dillingham, head coach of Arizona State University, expressed a transformative view on the state of college football recruiting. Dillingham declared, “To me, recruiting is dead. Retention is alive.” This bold assertion has sparked discussions among coaches, analysts, and fans alike, shedding light on the evolving landscape of college football.

### The Shift from Recruiting to Retention

Dillingham’s perspective underscores a significant shift in the priorities of college football programs. Traditionally, recruiting has been the cornerstone of building a competitive team, focusing on attracting high school talent and coveted transfers. However, with the rise of the transfer portal and changing player dynamics, retaining talent has become equally, if not more, important.

Retention refers to the ability of programs to keep their players engaged, committed, and satisfied during their college careers. This is particularly crucial in an era where athletes have more options than ever. The NCAA’s transfer portal allows student-athletes to switch schools with relative ease, making it imperative for coaches to foster an environment that encourages loyalty and long-term commitment.

### The Impact of the Transfer Portal

The NCAA transfer portal has revolutionized college football, allowing players to explore new opportunities without facing the penalties that were once commonplace. This change has led to a more fluid player landscape, where rosters can change dramatically from one season to the next. Programs that fail to prioritize retention may find themselves in a constant cycle of scrambling to fill gaps left by departing players.

As a result, coaches like Dillingham are now focusing on building strong relationships with their players, creating a culture that promotes development, support, and camaraderie. This shift signifies a recognition that a cohesive team is built not just through recruiting but also through cultivating an environment where players feel valued and invested in their program.

### Emphasizing Player Development and Well-being

In addition to fostering relationships, retention strategies also involve prioritizing player development and well-being. Programs are increasingly investing in resources such as mental health support, academic assistance, and career counseling. This comprehensive approach helps ensure that student-athletes are not only successful on the field but also thriving academically and personally.

By focusing on retention, programs can also maintain continuity in their systems and philosophies, which can lead to better performance on the field. A stable roster allows for more effective training, improved team chemistry, and a greater likelihood of achieving long-term goals.

### Conclusion

Kenny Dillingham’s assertion that “recruiting is dead” may be an exaggeration, but it certainly captures the essence of a critical transformation in college football. As the dynamics of player recruitment evolve, the importance of retention cannot be overstated. Coaches must adapt to this new reality by prioritizing player relationships, development, and well-being. In doing so, they can build programs that not only attract talent but also nurture it, ensuring sustained success in an increasingly competitive landscape. As the college football world continues to shift, those who embrace this change will likely find themselves at the forefront of the sport.

One of the more interesting takes from @Big12Conference Media Days came from Kenny Dillingham of Arizona State, who summed up modern college football this way: “To me, recruiting is dead. Retention is alive.”

— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) July 8, 2025

One of the more interesting takes from @Big12Conference Media Days came from Kenny Dillingham of Arizona State, who summed up modern college football this way: “To me, recruiting is dead. Retention is alive.”

In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, few statements ring as true as the words of Kenny Dillingham, the head coach of Arizona State. His assertion that “recruiting is dead” while “retention is alive” speaks volumes about the current state of the sport. As college football continues to shift toward a more player-centric model, understanding the implications of Dillingham’s statement is crucial for fans, players, and coaches alike.

Understanding the Shift: What Does “Recruiting is Dead” Mean?

When Dillingham claims that “recruiting is dead,” he’s not suggesting that schools will stop trying to attract young talent. Instead, he’s highlighting a significant shift in priorities. The introduction of the transfer portal and the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities has changed how college athletes view their options. The traditional model of recruiting, where coaches would spend countless hours persuading high school athletes to join their programs, is evolving.

Now, many players are opting to transfer rather than stick with the program they initially chose. This trend means that coaches need to focus as much on retaining players as they do on bringing in new talent. The stability of a program increasingly depends on its ability to keep its existing roster intact, making retention a focal point for modern college football teams.

The Impact of the Transfer Portal on Retention

The introduction of the transfer portal has transformed the college football landscape. Players are no longer tied to their original commitments, leading to a surge in movement among athletes seeking better opportunities. According to a report by [NCAA](https://www.ncaa.com/news/ncaa/article/2021-03-30/transfer-portal-explained-how-it-works), the portal allows players to enter their names and explore options at other schools, creating a competitive environment.

Because of this newfound freedom, coaches are under immense pressure to keep their players happy. If a student-athlete feels underutilized, overworked, or simply unhappy, they can easily seek greener pastures at another institution. Thus, retention strategies have become just as critical as recruitment efforts. Programs that prioritize building relationships with their players often find themselves with more stability and success on the field.

How NIL Influences Player Retention

The rise of NIL deals has also changed the game dramatically. Student-athletes can now monetize their personal brand, which incentivizes them to stay at a school that supports their commercial interests. Schools that actively promote and facilitate NIL opportunities for their players can enhance retention rates.

For instance, programs that offer robust support systems for their athletes—such as partnerships with local businesses or guidance on marketing—tend to foster loyalty. Players are more likely to remain with a program that not only meets their athletic needs but also supports their financial growth. As reported by [ESPN](https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/31982188/nil-how-name-image-likeness-changes-college-football), the NIL landscape has created a new dynamic where players feel empowered, making retention even more relevant in today’s college football.

Retention Strategies: What Coaches Are Doing

With the emphasis on retention, coaches are implementing various strategies to build a strong, cohesive team culture. Communication is key. Coaches who maintain open lines of dialogue with their players are more likely to understand their needs and concerns. Regular check-ins, team-building activities, and creating a family-like atmosphere can go a long way in ensuring players feel valued.

Additionally, providing development opportunities is crucial. Players want to know that they are growing and improving, both as athletes and individuals. Programs that invest in coaching, training facilities, and resources for personal development can cultivate an environment where players feel they can achieve their goals without needing to transfer.

The Role of Player Engagement and Mental Health

In today’s competitive environment, player engagement and mental health are more important than ever. Athletes face significant pressure to perform, and how they are supported can influence their decision to stay at a program. Coaches who prioritize mental health resources and create an inclusive environment are likely to see higher retention rates.

Programs that offer counseling services, mental health days, and stress management workshops can make a significant impact. Players who feel supported in their mental well-being are more inclined to remain loyal to their teams. The conversation around mental health in sports is evolving, and programs that adapt to these needs will find success in player retention.

Building a Competitive Advantage Through Retention

In a world where the transfer portal and NIL deals can turn the tides of a season, programs that excel in retention can gain a competitive edge. By fostering a culture of loyalty and support, teams can build a strong foundation that translates into success on the field.

Recruiting high school talent will always be a crucial aspect of building a program, but the ability to maintain that talent will define the future of college football. Coaches who embrace this shift and invest in retention strategies will not only improve their rosters but also create a more stable, successful environment for their players.

Looking Ahead: What the Future Holds for College Football

Kenny Dillingham’s statement about retention reflects a broader trend that is likely to continue shaping the landscape of college football. As the transfer portal becomes more entrenched and NIL opportunities expand, the focus on retaining talent will only grow. Coaches, players, and programs will need to adapt to these changes to remain competitive.

As fans, we can expect to see more emphasis on how programs engage with their current athletes and the strategies they employ to keep them. The next wave of college football might not just be about who recruits the best talent, but who retains the talent they already have.

The world of college football is in a state of flux, and those who can navigate these changes effectively will thrive. Dillingham’s perspective serves as a reminder that in this new era, retention is indeed alive and kicking, and it’s here to stay.

In summary, the landscape of college football is changing rapidly. Retention is becoming as vital as recruitment, with factors like the transfer portal and NIL deals influencing how programs are built. Coaches who prioritize their players’ well-being, engage with them effectively, and create a supportive culture will lead the charge in this new era of college football. Embracing these changes will be essential for any program aiming for long-term success.