Patrick Stewart Steps into New Role as Nebraska’s Football GM

Nebraska has appointed Patrick Stewart as the new general manager of their football program. Stewart, who previously served as the director of pro personnel for the New England Patriots, joins the Cornhuskers during a dynamic period for both organizations. His transition marks a significant shift for Nebraska as it looks to build on its successes under second-year coach Matt Rhule, who led the team to a 7-6 season last year.

Stewart's departure from the Patriots coincides with a transitional phase under first-year coach Mike Vrabel. Despite the changes, the Patriots’ personnel department remains under the leadership of executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf, who had appointed Stewart as director of pro personnel last year. The arrival of Vrabel has triggered some reshuffling within the Patriots’ front office, including the appointment of Ryan Cowden as vice president of player personnel. Cowden and Vrabel have a history of collaboration, having worked together with the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2022.

Stewart’s extensive career began after graduating from Ohio State. He initially worked in college football with the Buckeyes from 2000 to 2004 before moving to Western Carolina and Temple. His journey into the NFL began in 2007 when he joined the Patriots as a scouting assistant. Over the next decade, Stewart balanced roles in both college and pro scouting within the Patriots organization.

His career further expanded as he took on roles beyond New England. Stewart served as a national scout for the Philadelphia Eagles and later advanced to significant positions with the Carolina Panthers, including director of player personnel and vice president of player personnel.

As Nebraska welcomes Stewart, they also see a shift in leadership at multiple levels. Current general manager Sean Padden will transition to the role of assistant athletic director for strategic intelligence. This move is part of Nebraska's strategy to enhance their football program's operational efficiency and competitive edge under Rhule's leadership.