Tavita Pritchard Appointed Head Coach of Stanford Football

Stanford University has officially appointed Tavita Pritchard as the Bradford M. Freeman Director of Football, a decision announced by General Manager Andrew Luck on November 28, 2025. Pritchard, who is currently serving as the quarterbacks coach for the Washington Commanders, will transition to his new role immediately following the Commanders’ game against the Denver Broncos on November 30. He will be formally introduced at a press conference scheduled for Tuesday.

Tavita Pritchard Named Bradford M. Freeman Director of Football

Tavita Pritchard, a 2009 Stanford graduate, has a long-standing connection with the university's football program, having spent 17 seasons in various capacities, including quarterback, graduate assistant, and offensive coordinator. His tenure includes notable achievements, such as leading Stanford to a historic upset over No. 2 USC in 2007. Pritchard's coaching experience includes developing prominent players like Jayden Daniels, Bryce Love, and Tanner McKee during his time as offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2022.

Stanford alum hires Stanford alum as head coach

Andrew Luck emphasized Pritchard's qualifications, stating, “Winning in college football today requires a leader of men who can build and motivate teams, recruit future stars, and develop and connect with talent.” He described Pritchard as a "culture builder" and a "teacher of football of the highest caliber." Commanders head coach Dan Quinn echoed this sentiment, highlighting Pritchard's ability to earn respect and build relationships within a team.

Tavita Pritchard Named Bradford M. Freeman Director of Football

Pritchard succeeds Frank Reich, who served as the interim head coach during the 2025 season, leading Stanford to its highest win total in five years. Reich expressed his support for Pritchard, stating, “I believe Tavita is the perfect builder to help continue Stanford’s mission of success.” Reich will remain with the program as a senior advisor.

Tavita Pritchard Named Bradford M. Freeman Director of FootballESPNStanford alum hires Stanford alum as head coach

Pritchard's appointment is part of a broader strategy to revitalize Stanford football, which has faced challenges in recent years, including a lack of winning seasons since 2020. Stanford President Jonathan Levin and Athletic Director John Donahoe have been instrumental in this transition, with Donahoe noting that Pritchard is a crucial piece in restoring the program's winning tradition. The university has also seen significant fundraising success, raising over $100 million, including a $50 million donation from alumnus Bradford M. Freeman.

Tavita Pritchard Named Bradford M. Freeman Director of Football

Despite the optimism surrounding Pritchard's hiring, Stanford's football program has struggled to adapt to the evolving landscape of college football. The team has not participated in a bowl game since 2018 and has faced difficulties in maintaining consistent performance. Pritchard's ability to navigate these challenges and build a competitive program will be closely monitored as he embarks on this new chapter.

Stanford alum hires Stanford alum as head coach

• “Tavita Pritchard is exactly the right head coach at the right time to help us build on the foundation of this season and lead Stanford football to its next great era.” — Andrew Luck, General Manager

Tavita Pritchard Named Bradford M. Freeman Director of Football

• “Stanford is a place like no other and my family and I are full of gratitude to be returning home in every sense of the word,” — Tavita Pritchard, Head Coach

Stanford alum hires Stanford alum as head coach

• “I believe Tavita is the perfect builder to help continue Stanford’s mission of success.” — Frank Reich, Interim Coach

Tavita Pritchard Named Bradford M. Freeman Director of Football

Pritchard's return to Stanford marks a significant moment for the program as it seeks to reclaim its status in college football.

ESPN