USC is making waves in college football by hiring Wisconsin general manager Max Stienecker as the new executive director of player personnel. This move comes on the heels of former Notre Dame general manager Chad Bowden joining the Trojans, marking a significant expansion of USC’s personnel department. With these strategic hires, the Trojans are clearly gearing up for an exciting future.
Stienecker’s Rise in College Football
Stienecker has quickly established himself as one of the brightest talents in the college football personnel landscape. At just 2023, he was the youngest general manager in the Power Four, a title he earned after two successful seasons as the director of player personnel at Wisconsin. His journey began under the guidance of coach Luke Fickell, who brought him along from Cincinnati to the Badgers. This experience has equipped Stienecker with the skills and insights necessary to thrive in his new role at USC.
Recruiting Success at Wisconsin
During his time at Wisconsin, Stienecker played a pivotal role in the program’s recruiting efforts. The Badgers are currently ranked No. 26 in the 2025 On3 Industry Team Recruiting Rankings, showcasing a promising class that includes standout prospects like four-star linebacker Mason Posa and offensive lineman Hardy Watts. His ability to identify and attract top talent will undoubtedly be an asset for USC as they look to bolster their roster.
Transfer Portal Triumphs
Wisconsin’s success under Stienecker wasn’t limited to high school recruits. The Badgers also made significant strides in the transfer portal, bringing in key players such as Maryland quarterback Billy Edwards, Ball State tight end Tanner Koziol, and Miami cornerback D’yoni Hill. This strategic approach to roster management reflects a keen understanding of the evolving landscape of college football, where the transfer portal has become a vital tool for building competitive teams.
Bowden’s Impact on USC
The addition of Bowden to USC’s ranks earlier this year has already made a substantial impact. Hired in late January, he has been instrumental in transforming the program’s recruiting strategy. Under his guidance, USC achieved three top-11 recruiting classes from 2022 to 2024, a feat that the Trojans had not accomplished since the 2006-08 seasons. Bowden’s expertise also played a crucial role in assembling a transfer portal class of eight players this winter, further enhancing the team’s depth and competitiveness.
Collaboration Between Stienecker and Bowden
Stienecker and Bowden share a history that dates back to their time at Cincinnati under Fickell. Their collaboration has already proven fruitful, and now they will work together at USC to elevate the program to new heights. When Marcus Freeman took over as head coach at Notre Dame in 2021, he recognized Bowden’s potential and brought him along, a testament to Bowden’s capabilities. Now, with both Bowden and Stienecker on board, USC is clearly focused on building a championship-caliber program.
USC’s Vision for the Future
USC athletic director Jen Cohen expressed her enthusiasm for the new hires, stating, “Chad is the perfect fit to help us build and sustain a championship-level football program in the new era of college athletics. His work and expertise will be essential in the construction and management of our roster, the elevation of our robust NIL program, and the organization of our entire football operations.” This commitment to excellence is evident in the strategic moves being made within the program.
Looking Ahead: Lincoln Riley’s Fourth Season
As Lincoln Riley prepares to kick off his fourth season at USC, anticipation is building. The Trojans will face Missouri State on August 30, and fans are eager to see how the new personnel structure will translate into on-field success. With Stienecker and Bowden leading the charge, USC is poised to make a significant impact in the college football landscape.
In a world where college football is constantly evolving, the moves being made by USC signal a commitment to not just compete, but to dominate. The hiring of Stienecker, alongside Bowden, showcases a proactive approach to building a program that can thrive in the new era of college athletics. With a focus on recruiting, roster management, and overall program development, the Trojans are setting themselves up for a bright future. Can they reclaim their status as a powerhouse in college football? Only time will tell, but the groundwork is certainly being laid for an exciting journey ahead.
