Steve Sarkisian’s Coaching Future Raises Questions

There’s some buzz about Steve Sarkisian possibly eyeing opportunities outside Texas, but his team insists that’s not the case.

According to a report from The Athletic’s Deanna Russini, on Saturday, Sarkisian’s agent informed NFL teams of his interest in a head coaching role. The Tennessee Titans, who are currently seeking a new head coach after firing Brian Callahan earlier this month, were specifically mentioned.

However, shortly after this report, Sarkisian’s representatives at Creative Artists Agency released a statement refuting the claims about any plans to transition to the NFL. They asserted that “reports regarding communications regarding coaching opportunities with NFL teams are patently false and grossly inaccurate. Sark is committed to coaching the University of Texas football team,” as noted by Jimmy Sexton and Ed Melinowitz.

Sarkisian has previous ties to the NFL. In 2004, he worked as the quarterbacks coach for the Raiders under head coach Norv Turner. He returned to the league in 2017 as the Falcons’ offensive coordinator before moving on to Alabama, where he held similar roles.

During his tenure as Texas head coach, which spans more than four seasons, Sarkisian has amassed a record of 42-19. Yet, despite some successes, the Longhorns have not captured that elusive national title. His overall collegiate record stands at 88-54, combining his time with Washington, USC, and Texas.

This year, the Longhorns started out as the top-ranked team but have faced some challenges, currently sitting with a record of 5-2 going into a game against Mississippi State.

Interestingly, Sarkisian’s offense has struggled somewhat, averaging just 368.3 total yards per game—placing them at 78th in college football. Earlier this year, he signed a new deal that extends his contract through the 2031 season, bumping his salary up from $10.4 million to $10.8 million this year.

At that time, it was reported that Sarkisian turned down meetings with two NFL teams, opting not to formally pursue any opportunities. A source commented back in January that “the fact that Sarkisian was not interviewed by the NFL shows his buy-in and dedication to the University of Texas.”