Oklahoma GM Jim Nagy Explains Why OU Won’t Overspend for 5-Star Recruits
Oklahoma’s General Manager, Jim Nagy, recently explained why the Sooners won’t be overspending on 5-star recruits. According to Nagy, the team will stick to their own grading scale and salary structure, rather than relying on external labels like “5-star” or “3-star”. This approach is inspired by the NFL model, where teams evaluate players based on their actual talent and potential, rather than their high school ranking.
Nagy believes that 5-star recruits often expect to be paid like 5-stars, which can lead to overspending. Instead, OU will focus on identifying talented players who fit within their budget and roster structure. Nagy emphasized that the team’s scouting staff will have “layers and layers of cross-checks” to evaluate players, ensuring they make informed decisions.
Some key points from Nagy’s approach include ¹ ²:
– *Internal Grading Scale*: OU will use a color-based grading scale to evaluate players, similar to the NFL model.
– *Value-Based Recruitment*: The team will look for players who offer value, rather than chasing highly-rated recruits.
– *Roster Management*: Nagy aims to build a well-rounded roster, avoiding gaps at key positions.
– *NFL Experience*: Nagy’s 18-year NFL scouting experience informs his approach, prioritizing talent evaluation over star ratings.
By adopting this strategy, Oklahoma aims to build a competitive roster while maintaining financial sustainability ³.
