Patrick Hobbs, the athletics director at Rutgers University, has stepped down, as reported by multiple sources. Ryan Pisarri, who previously served as deputy athletics director and was a standout three-sport athlete at Ramapo High School, will take over as the interim director.

At 62, Hobbs had been in this position for nine years. His departure comes just before the much-anticipated football season, during which analysts expect the Scarlet Knights to make a significant impact.

This resignation follows a contract extension that was approved unanimously by Rutgers’ board of governors two years ago, which was intended to keep him in place until 2028. In 2021, his reported salary was $1,313,759.

Details surrounding Hobbs’ resignation remain unclear. He reportedly communicated his decision through an internal email at the university, according to NJ Advance Media.

Looking back at the Patrick Hobbs era at Rutgers

Hobbs joined Rutgers in November 2015, shortly after the university entered the Big Ten Conference. Throughout his tenure, he oversaw the construction of a $115 million multisport practice facility, dismissed an unsuccessful football coach, and faced significant scrutiny during the tumultuous recruitment of Greg Schiano.

Moreover, he initiated the revival of Rutgers’ basketball program by hiring Steve Pikiell as head coach in 2016. As the men’s basketball team gears up for the coming season, expectations are high due to an influx of talented players, including Ace Bailey, Dylan Harper, Lathan Somerville, and Bryce Dortch.

More on interim AD Ryan Pisarri

Ryan Pisarri, aged 40, takes over as interim athletics director. He made the transition from finance to athletics in 2011 when he joined Rutgers as an assistant academic coordinator, collaborating closely with both the men’s and women’s basketball teams. He was later promoted in 2013 to the position of assistant director of administration and marketing.