James Blanchard has become one of the most valuable behind-the-scenes figures in college football. Texas Tech rewarded that rise with a new extension that locks in the architect of its roster-building operation through 2028.
The Red Raiders are coming off a historic season with a College Football Playoff appearance, their first Big 12 championship, and a 12–1 overall record, including 8–1 in conference play. Blanchard played a major role in the roster-building operation for this success.
Texas Tech rewarded that success by extending Blanchard’s contract through 2028. The deal is worth up to $2.225 million over the length of the contract, factoring in retention bonuses, with additional performance incentives available, as per ESPN.
Texas Tech GM James Blanchard’s extension through 2028 is worth up to $2.225 million over the length of the deal with retention bonuses, a source tells ESPN. Blanchard can also earn performance bonuses. pic.twitter.com/4oukeRzwWA
— Max Olson (@max_olson) December 17, 2025
It is a clear signal that the program views the general manager role as foundational, not supplemental. Blanchard has been with Texas Tech since 2022, arriving with head coach Joey McGuire.
He was McGuire’s first major hire and helped implement a solid front-office model. In just three seasons, that structure helped elevate Texas Tech from a competitive Big 12 program to a conference champion and playoff team.
The extensions did not stop with Blanchard. Texas Tech also locked in its on-field leadership. Offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich, defensive coordinator Shiel Wood, and associate head coach and special teams coordinator Kenny Perry all received extensions through 2028 as well.
The program opted for continuity across every major decision-making layer after its breakthrough year. This move indicates that the program has faith in their collective effort and the direction they’re headed in.
James Blanchard Sits Outside Top 10 on Highest Earners List
Before the extension, Blanchard ranked 12th nationally on the highest-paid college football general managers list. An October On3 report placed his salary at $525,000, positioning him just outside the top 10 earners at the position.
With a contract that can reach $2.225 million through 2028, Blanchard’s average annual compensation is set to rise significantly. While exact yearly figures are not public, the new structure puts him on track to move closer to, and potentially into, the top 10.
If Texas Tech sustains its current level of success, his standing among the sport’s highest-paid front-office figures is unlikely to remain unchanged. Texas Tech has already made its position clear. The infrastructure that delivered a Big 12 title is worth paying for.
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