Remember the article earlier this season when Geno talked about the then current state of the roster, how the puzzle pieces fit, that the puzzle was smashed with all the injuries, and that he and the staff had to completely remake the puzzle? I think that he does that with the roster, looking at the present, and then projecting the future.
In my work days, we used to call that a MGPP, or multi-generational product plan. He’s probably got a 1-3-5 year look at potential rosters based on who is currently here, who we know is coming, and then looks at all the potential recuits to see how they fit it. An added dimension of this is the transfer portal, where you can have a grad transfer for one year, or a undergrad for 2+ years. The former will add some experience and leadership for one year, and the latter will pretty much be a normal roster spot, one which will affect the next 2+ years of recruiting.
As much as both the portal and recruiting activities are exciting, I'm learning not to get too caught up in it all. However, I'd love to sit in on a masterclass by Geno of how he envisioned the roster over a number of years.
On edit - and, I'll bet that part of the recruiting is also how the player interacts with the current group. There's a strong sense of family and togetherness that is incredibly important in this program.