Mizzou football hired Gaurav Verma as its director of football strategy and finance, the program announced Friday.
In his new role, Verma will oversee budget management, contract analysis and long-term strategic planning for the Tigers.
“We are really excited to add Gaurav to our program,” MU coach Eliah Drinkwitz said in a news release. “His NFL experience, as well as his business background, will help us navigate revenue sharing and contract management.”
Verma arrives with experience in college athletics and professional sports administration, most recently working as a salary cap specialist for the Denver Broncos.
“I’m thrilled to join Mizzou Football at such a transformative time,” Verma said. “With college football evolving rapidly through revenue sharing and strategic roster management, I’m excited to apply my background in finance and the NFL to help Mizzou build sustainably competitive teams on the sport’s biggest stage — the SEC.
“I want to thank Coach Drinkwitz for this opportunity and can’t wait to help build on the program’s success as we compete for national championships.”
Verma’s hiring comes as Mizzou continues to expand its off-field infrastructure under Drinkwitz, with an emphasis on operational efficiency and resource management.
Norfleet named to Mackey Award Watch List
Missouri junior tight end Brett Norfleet was named to the Mackey Award Watch List on Friday.
The John Mackey Award — which was won by former Mizzou standout Chase Coffman in 2008 — annually honors the nation’s top tight end.
Norfleet caught 18 passes for 197 yards and three touchdowns in 2023 despite battling injuries late in the season. He was named a Freshman All-American and earned SEC All-Freshman honors.
In 2024, expectations for Norfleet were high, but injuries again limited his production. He still made eight starts and finished with 26 catches for 235 yards and two touchdowns, though the breakout year many anticipated was hindered by time missed.
The St. Charles product is expected to be a focal point of the Tigers’ offense this fall, with offensive coordinator Kirby Moore emphasizing a larger role for the tight end position.
Former Mizzou defensive line coach Davis joins Rock Bridge staff
Former Missouri defensive line coach Al Davis joined the football staff at Rock Bridge High School, head coach Matt Perkins announced Wednesday.
“Coach Davis brings a wealth of expertise in the game of football and a passion that will drive us to a new level,” Perkins said in a post on X.
Davis stepped down from his role with the Tigers in May after three seasons of coaching multiple All-SEC performers and helping lead Mizzou to back-to-back double-digit-win seasons.
At Rock Bridge, Davis will assist Perkins in developing a program that has consistently competed in Missouri’s highest classification. His addition brings power conference experience to the Bruins’ sideline before their season and home opener against Park Hill at 7 p.m. Aug. 29.