Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has signed a seven-year contract extension to remain with the program, solidifying his commitment to the team despite recent NFL interest. Sarkisian, 50, joined Texas in 2021 and has since transformed the program into a perennial contender. Under his leadership, the Longhorns have compiled a 38-17 overall record, highlighted by an impressive 25-5 mark over the past two seasons. During that time, Texas has reached the College Football Playoff (CFP) in back-to-back years, only to fall short in the semifinals. Notably, they are the only team to make the CFP in the last two seasons.
With the departure of quarterback Quinn Ewers to the NFL Draft, the begining of Arch Manning as the new starter has sparked high expectations for the upcoming season. Sarkisian’s 11-year career at Washington, USC and Texas includes an 84-52 record, a .618 winning percentage and a 4-5 record in bowl games. As the Longhorns prepare for another playoff run, the question remains: Will the third time be the charm for Sarkisian?
Sarkisian signs with Longhorns
The decision to extend Sarkisian’s contract comes after he reportedly turned down interviews with two NFL teams, emphasizing his loyalty to Texas. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, the new deal includes a significant raise, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football in what would be a seven-year contract for Sarkisian. The Longhorns’ recent success under Sarkisian’s leadership has garnered widespread attention, especially with their first season in the SEC culminating in a title game appearance and two CFP wins. While the team fell to Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl, Sarkisian expressed pride in representing the SEC and emphasized the demanding nature of competing in the conference. Texas will begin the 2025 season with a high-profile rematch against Ohio State in Columbus.
Sarkisian’s decision to remain in Austin reflects not only his belief in the trajectory of the program, but also the potential he sees in Arch Manning as the team’s quarterback. His tenure at Texas has shown steady improvement, with the team winning five games in his first year, followed by eight, 12 and now 13 wins in 2024. The significant raise – reportedly around $10 million annually – probably also had a lot to do with his decision to stay in Texas. Sarkisian is now one of the highest-paid coaches in football, both college and NFL. For Texas, the extension is a strategic move to maintain momentum as the Longhorns seek their first national title since 2005.
Ultimately, this extension underscores the faith that both Sarkisian and Texas have in each other.While the NFL’s interest is flattering, his commitment to the Longhorns and the opportunity to shape Manning’s career appear to have been the deciding factors. As the 2025 season approaches, Texas fans can look forward to a team poised to compete at the highest level, led by a coach whose dedication and vision have brought the program back to prominence.