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Report: Rutgers investigating former AD Pat Hobbs for possible 'inappropriate, consensual relationship'

ns_headshot_2024-clearby:Nick Schultz•08/30/24•

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Former Rutgers AD Pat Hobbs
Rutgers Athletic Director, Pat Hobbs in the lobby of the Gary and Barbara Rodkin Academic Success Center, part of the multiple new and upgraded athletic facilities on the campus of Rutgers University as seen at their Piscataway campus on August 5, 2021. New And Upgraded Athletic Facilities On The Campus Of Rutgers University As Seen At Their Piscataway Campus On Augusta© Chris Pedota/NorthJersey.com via Imagn Content Services, LLC 5 2021

Rutgers is investigating former athletics director Pat Hobbs, NJ Advance Media‘s Brian Fonseca reported Friday night. The inquiry is into a possible ‘inappropriate, consensual relationship,’ and the investigation is believed to have led to Hobbs’ resignation earlier this month, per the report.

Hobbs stepped down Aug. 16 and cited health concerns in his decision. He took over as the AD at Rutgers in 2015 after previously working in the office of former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.

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Current New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy confirmed an “internal investigation” Friday, according to NJ Advance Media, which also reported complaints within the gymnastics program. Murphy said the inquiry is from “the highest levels” of Rutgers’ administration.

Hobbs sent an email to athletics department staff Aug. 16 regarding his decision to step down. He cited a recent appointment with his cardiac doctors, which factored into the move.

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“Earlier this morning, I shared with (Rutgers University President) Jonathan (Holloway) that I am departing my position as Athletic Director at Rutgers University,” Hobbs wrote in the email, per NJ Advance Media. “I truly believe we are writing the greatest chapter in Rutgers history and I am confident that you will continue to do so. 

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“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve with you. I look forward to enjoying all your success this season and in the years ahead.”

Hobbs played a key role in Rutgers’ transition to the Big Ten after one year in the American Athletic Conference. That came after a long stint in the old Big East before it disbanded in 2013.

On the football field, Pat Hobbs didn’t start his tenure off with a bang, as Chris Ash won just nine games over his four seasons at the helm. However, the return of Greg Schiano has restored some faith, with ESPN’s Kirk Herbstreit going as far as to call them a dark-horse College Football Playoff contender in 2024. Rutgers started the 2024 season with a resounding win over Howard on Thursday.

Elsewhere, Hobbs’ hire of Steve Pikiell for the Scarlet Knights’ men’s basketball program has completely turned things around. After having one of the top recruiting classes in the country this past year, Rutgers seems primed to make a run in March. 

On3’s Steve Samra contributed to this report.