In a thought-provoking statement made during the Big 12 Conference Media Days, Kenny Dillingham, head coach of Arizona state, offered a striking perspective on the evolving landscape of college football recruiting. He asserted, “To me, recruiting is dead. Retention is alive.” This assertion has sparked significant discussions among fans, coaches, and analysts alike regarding the future of college football.

### Understanding the Shift in College Football Dynamics

The world of college football is undergoing a transformation, with traditional recruiting methods being challenged by new realities. Dillingham’s statement reflects a broader trend where retaining talent has become a priority for programs grappling with the implications of the transfer portal and changing player dynamics. In an era where athletes have more freedom than ever to switch teams, the focus has shifted from merely attracting new players to ensuring the ones already on the roster remain committed.

### The Impact of the Transfer Portal

One of the key factors influencing this shift is the introduction and increasing prevalence of the NCAA’s transfer portal. Launched in 2018, the transfer portal allows student-athletes to enter their name and explore opportunities at other institutions. This development has drastically altered the recruitment landscape, leading to an environment where players are more likely to leave their current teams for better opportunities or environments.

As a result, coaches must prioritize retention strategies to keep their rosters intact. This includes building strong relationships with players, understanding their needs, and fostering a supportive team culture. The focus has moved from simply bringing in new recruits to maintaining a stable, cohesive team.

### Building Stronger Relationships with Players

In the modern era of college football, the importance of building relationships cannot be overstated. Players are looking for coaches who not only recruit them effectively but also invest in their personal and professional development. This means that coaches must engage in open communication, actively listen to their players, and provide the necessary support to help them thrive both on and off the field.

Retention strategies may include mentorship programs, career development opportunities, and addressing players’ academic needs. By focusing on these aspects, coaches can create an environment where players feel valued and supported, reducing the likelihood of them seeking opportunities elsewhere.

### The Role of NIL in Recruiting and Retention

Another critical factor in the evolving landscape of college football is the advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights. With players now able to profit from their NIL, financial considerations have become a significant aspect of recruitment and retention. Programs that can offer lucrative NIL opportunities may find it easier to attract top talent and keep their current players satisfied.

Coaches must navigate this new terrain carefully, ensuring that they provide fair and equitable opportunities for their athletes while maintaining compliance with NCAA regulations. This requires a strategic approach to marketing and promoting players, as well as fostering relationships with local businesses and sponsors.

### Adapting to the New Norms

As the college football landscape continues to evolve, coaches and programs must adapt their strategies accordingly. Emphasizing retention over recruitment is not merely a trend but a necessary adjustment to the realities of modern college athletics. Programs that can effectively retain their talent will likely enjoy greater success on the field, while those that focus solely on recruiting may find themselves in a constant cycle of rebuilding.

### The Importance of Player Development

Retention is not solely about keeping players on the roster; it’s also about their growth and development as athletes. Coaches must prioritize player development programs that enhance skills, improve performance, and prepare athletes for the next level, whether in college football or beyond. This commitment to development will not only benefit the individual players but can also lead to greater team success.

### The Future of College Football Recruiting

As we move forward, the traditional model of college football recruiting will likely continue to evolve. The emphasis on retention is becoming increasingly clear, with coaches recognizing that stability within their programs is essential for long-term success. Dillingham’s statement encapsulates this shift, highlighting a new era in which keeping players engaged and committed is paramount.

### Conclusion

Kenny Dillingham’s commentary at the Big 12 Conference Media Days has opened the door to a crucial conversation about the future of college football recruiting. As the sport navigates the complexities of the transfer portal, NIL rights, and player development, the focus on retention will undoubtedly shape the strategies of programs across the nation. Coaches who prioritize building strong relationships with their players, fostering a supportive environment, and investing in their development will be well-positioned to succeed in this new landscape.

In summary, the statement “To me, recruiting is dead. Retention is alive” serves as a wake-up call for college football programs to rethink their approaches. The modern game demands a commitment to retaining talent, ensuring that teams remain cohesive, competitive, and successful in an ever-changing environment. As the sport continues to evolve, those who adapt to these new norms will thrive, while others may struggle to keep pace.

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 world of college football, the landscape is constantly shifting, and it seems like the conversation is changing faster than ever. One of the standout moments from the recent Big 12 Conference Media Days came from Arizona State’s head coach, Kenny Dillingham. His bold statement, “To me, recruiting is dead. Retention is alive,” has sparked a debate among fans, analysts, and fellow coaches. But what does it really mean for the future of college football?

First, let’s break down what Dillingham is implying. Traditionally, recruiting has been the cornerstone of college football programs. Coaches invest countless hours scouting high school talent, building relationships, and trying to convince young athletes to join their teams. However, with the rise of the transfer portal and the evolving dynamics of player commitments, Dillingham suggests that retaining current players has become far more critical than simply recruiting new talent.

Understanding the Shift in College Football

The emergence of the transfer portal has undeniably shifted the focus of college football. Players now have the freedom to switch programs more easily than ever before, often looking for better opportunities, more playing time, or even a change of scenery. This shift has made retention a priority for coaches who want to maintain a stable and competitive roster.

Retention, in this context, means keeping players satisfied, engaged, and committed to their current programs. It’s about creating an environment where athletes feel valued and see a future for themselves with the team. With the ability to transfer freely, players are more likely to leave if they feel undervalued or if the program doesn’t meet their expectations.

The Impact of the Transfer Portal

The transfer portal has changed the game. No longer are players bound to their initial commitments for four years. Instead, they can explore new options if they feel their current situation isn’t fitting their needs. This has led to an unprecedented level of movement among student-athletes. It’s not just about recruiting high school stars anymore; retaining current players has become equally, if not more, important.

Programs that successfully navigate this new landscape are the ones that prioritize building strong relationships with their players. Coaches need to be more than just strategists; they must also be mentors and advocates for their athletes. Retaining talent is about understanding their needs, addressing their concerns, and fostering a culture that encourages growth and development both on and off the field.

Retention: A New Approach to Team Building

Building a cohesive team requires more than just acquiring talent; it’s about nurturing and developing that talent over time. Coaches need to invest in their players, ensuring they feel supported and engaged. This shift in focus from recruiting to retention is a response to the realities of the modern college football landscape.

Programs that prioritize retention often see stronger team dynamics. Players who feel valued and invested in their program are more likely to contribute positively to team chemistry. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about creating an atmosphere where athletes can thrive both personally and professionally.

Moreover, retaining players can lead to better overall performance. When athletes are committed to their teams, they are more likely to work harder during practices and games, leading to improved results on the field. This creates a positive feedback loop: success leads to higher morale, which in turn encourages even more commitment from players.

Challenges in Retention

While the focus on retention is essential, it’s not without its challenges. Coaches face the daunting task of keeping players engaged in an environment where they have the option to leave at a moment’s notice. This means maintaining open lines of communication and addressing any issues that may arise promptly.

The pressure to win can also complicate retention efforts. Coaches may feel inclined to make quick decisions that prioritize immediate success over long-term player development. This can lead to an environment where players feel expendable or undervalued, ultimately causing them to seek opportunities elsewhere.

To combat these challenges, programs must create transparent and supportive environments. This means fostering trust between players and coaches and ensuring that athletes feel heard and respected. It’s about building a culture where retention is prioritized, not just as a response to the transfer portal, but as a fundamental aspect of team philosophy.

Strategies for Effective Retention

So, how can college football programs effectively retain their players in this new era? Here are some key strategies:

1. **Communication is Key**: Regular check-ins with players can help coaches gauge their satisfaction and address any concerns before they escalate. Open dialogue fosters trust and commitment.

2. **Personal Development**: Focusing on the holistic development of athletes—academically, athletically, and personally—can increase their attachment to a program. Providing resources for academic support, mental health, and life skills can make a significant difference.

3. **Creating a Strong Culture**: Programs with a strong, positive culture tend to retain players better. This includes promoting teamwork, accountability, and a sense of belonging.

4. **Involvement in Decision Making**: Involving players in certain decisions, such as team captains or leadership roles, can make them feel more invested in the program and its success.

5. **Celebrating Successes**: Acknowledging and celebrating both individual and team achievements can boost morale and reinforce a sense of community within the team.

6. **Consistent Feedback**: Providing constructive feedback helps players understand their roles and areas for improvement. When athletes know that their coaches are invested in their growth, they are more likely to remain committed.

7. **Flexibility and Understanding**: Recognizing that athletes are often balancing academics, athletics, and personal lives can help coaches make accommodations that support their players’ overall well-being.

Looking Ahead: The Future of College Football

As college football continues to evolve, the importance of retention will only grow. Coaches like Kenny Dillingham are at the forefront of this change, advocating for a shift in perspective that prioritizes the well-being of players over traditional recruitment strategies.

The reality is that modern college football is as much about retaining talent as it is about acquiring it. Programs that adapt to this new landscape will not only succeed on the field but will also create environments where players feel valued and motivated to contribute to the team’s success.

In this new era, the question isn’t just about who you recruit but how you keep the talent you have. The future of college football may very well depend on embracing this philosophy and recognizing that retention is alive and, crucially, here to stay.

By focusing on building strong relationships with players and fostering a culture of support and development, college football programs can thrive in this dynamic environment. Dillingham’s statement serves as a wake-up call for coaches everywhere: the game has changed, and those who adapt will lead the charge into a new era of college football.