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Steve Sarkisian, the head coach of the Texas Longhorns football program, has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him in Austin for the foreseeable future. This announcement comes amid reports that Sarkisian declined opportunities to interview for head coaching positions in the NFL, signaling his commitment to the Longhorns and their ongoing efforts to reclaim national prominence in college football.
The University of Texas at Austin confirmed the extension, which is believed to include a significant financial increase and additional resources for the football program. Sarkisian’s decision to remain at Texas highlights his confidence in the trajectory of the team and his belief in the program’s long-term potential.
FIZZLE OUT
Sarkisian, who took over as head coach in January 2021, inherited a program that had struggled to meet lofty expectations in recent years. The Longhorns, a storied program with a rich history, had been mired in mediocrity following a string of underwhelming seasons under previous head coaches. Sarkisian was hired to rejuvenate the team and bring Texas back to the forefront of college football.
In his first season, the Longhorns experienced growing pains, finishing with a 5-7 record. However, the program showed marked improvement in his second year, posting an 8-5 record and earning a bowl victory. The 2023 season saw further progress, as Texas contended for the Big 12 Championship and earned a spot in a New Year’s Six bowl game. Sarkisian’s ability to develop players and implement a dynamic offensive system has been pivotal to the team’s resurgence.
Declining NFL Interest
Reports surfaced earlier this offseason that several NFL teams had expressed interest in Sarkisian as a potential head coaching candidate. Sarkisian, who previously served as an offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, has a reputation as one of the brightest offensive minds in football. His success at Alabama, where he won the Broyles Award as the nation’s top assistant coach in 2020, further solidified his standing in coaching circles.
Despite the allure of the NFL, Sarkisian made it clear that his focus remains on the Longhorns. “I’m fully committed to the University of Texas and the vision we’re building here,” Sarkisian said in a statement. “This program has all the resources and support to compete at the highest level, and I’m excited about what we can accomplish together.”
Building for the Future
Sarkisian’s extension comes at a crucial time for the program. Texas is set to join the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2024, a move that will elevate the program’s competition level and national profile. Competing in the SEC will require continued investment in facilities, recruiting, and coaching staff, all of which were reportedly addressed in Sarkisian’s new deal.
Under Sarkisian, Texas has made significant strides in recruiting, consistently landing top-10 classes. His ability to attract elite talent has been instrumental in laying the foundation for sustained success. The Longhorns’ 2023 recruiting class featured several five-star prospects, including standout quarterback Arch Manning, who is expected to be a cornerstone of the program’s future.
Reactions and Implications
The news of Sarkisian’s extension has been met with widespread approval from Texas fans and alumni. Many see it as a sign of stability and a commitment to continuity, both of which have been lacking in recent years. Athletic Director Chris Del Conte praised Sarkisian’s leadership and vision, stating, “Steve has done an incredible job of instilling a winning culture and building a program that represents the pride and passion of Texas football. We’re thrilled to have him leading us into this next chapter.”
Sarkisian’s decision to stay also sends a strong message to recruits and current players. It underscores the program’s stability and reinforces the idea that Texas is a destination where coaches and players can achieve their goals. In an era of frequent coaching changes and transfer portal activity, continuity can be a significant advantage.
The Path Ahead
While the extension is a vote of confidence in Sarkisian, it also raises expectations. Texas fans have long awaited a return to the program’s glory days, and Sarkisian will be under pressure to deliver results, particularly as the team transitions to the SEC. The Longhorns will face a gauntlet of elite competition, including perennial powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU.
However, Sarkisian’s track record suggests he is up to the challenge. His offensive schemes have proven effective at both the collegiate and professional levels, and his ability to develop talent has been evident throughout his coaching career. With the resources and support available at Texas, Sarkisian has all the tools needed to build a championship-caliber program.
Conclusion
Steve Sarkisian’s decision to extend his tenure at Texas and decline NFL opportunities reflects his commitment to the Longhorns and their quest for national prominence. With a renewed contract, a strong recruiting pipeline, and the upcoming move to the SEC, the future looks bright for Texas football. As Sarkisian himself put it, “The best is yet to come.”
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