Rick George can have hands-on role helping $40 million Colorado AD candidate in new role as special advisor

In his process of pivoting from the University of Colorado Boulder’s athletic director to Special Advisor to the Chancellor and AD Emeritus, Rick George may still be heavily involved in the brain trust's decision-making. That he is could be a sign that they’re hiring someone with little to no experience in the role.

OnSI’s James Carnes reports that the hope is George will help along Jeremy Bloom if the former Olympic skier, former Colorado Buffaloes receiver and kick returner, and X Games CEO accepts the job.

“CU is looking for NIL momentum. Fans are craving bold leadership, and Bloom offers business experience and a personal attachment to the university. His recent work with corporate partnerships makes him a modern fit for the Buffaloes,” Carnes wrote.

“Many alumni on X, including former Buffaloes teammate Matt McChesney, have been posting endorsements for Jeremy Bloom, with McChesney posting, ‘Gary Barnett or Jeremy Bloom as the next AD.’

“This momentum on social media reflects a growing number of supporters, as alumni and fans alike have been naming Bloom above other possible hires, such as Philadelphia Eagles executive Matt Russell and CU Senior Associate AD Leon Jackson III.

“However, unlike other candidates, Bloom has never held an athletic department role. The hope for many is that Rick George can provide mentorship if Bloom steps in, allowing him to bring his energy, which will resonate with student-athletes and donors.

Bloom is the kind of hire that’d be in line with an extended run for Coach Prime in Boulder. If anything, he’s one of the biggest potential game-changing AD hires. He likely keeps giving Sanders the same autonomy while potentially figuring out a way to fundraise for more NIL spending money. George did well to bring “Prime Time” to Boulder, but Sanders had complaints about funding. George came to Colorado in a different era, when NIL wasn’t a thing. That the Buffs started 3-7 this season after Sanders was handed a massive contract extension didn't bode well for George.

We know Coach Prime is staying at CU after George’s stepping down. With Bloom, though, he might be able to thrive, and bring back the monster multi-billion dollar profits “Prime Time” used to represent in Colorado.