Key Highlights
- Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is exploring potential head-coaching openings in the NFL.
- Sarkisian’s contract with Texas extends through 2031, making him under pressure to perform at Texas despite a strong record.
- The development of the offense has been disappointing this season, as evidenced by recent losses and an underwhelming performance against Kentucky.
- Arch Manning’s play this season suggests he won’t be jumping to the NFL in 2026, but Sarkisian is still considering his options for a potential move.
Steve Sarkisian and His Search for a New Job
Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is currently exploring potential head-coaching openings in the NFL, according to The Athletic‘s Dianna Russini. While Sarkisian has signed a contract extension with Texas that lasts through 2031, he is reportedly putting out feelers for coaching positions, including the Tennessee Titans job.
This move comes as the Longhorns have struggled this season, entering Week 9 with a disappointing record of 5-2. The team has suffered losses to then-No. 3 Ohio State and Florida, despite the Gators having recently fired their head coach Billy Napier amid a poor performance. The marriage between Sarkisian and quarterback Arch Manning has not been as promising as expected, with the development of the offense being less than ideal.
Pressure on Sarkisian at Texas
The pressure on Sarkisian to perform is significant given Texas’s substantial investment in the college football program. As one of the highest NIL-valuation players in the sport, Manning represents a key asset for the team. Despite leading the Longhorns to two College Football Playoff appearances in 2023 and 2024, Sarkisian faces mounting expectations to deliver results.
The recent 16-13 overtime win over Kentucky showcased the challenges Sarkisian is facing, as the offense struggled to produce consistent performances. This performance has raised questions about the future of Sarkisian at Texas, with potential interviews for NFL coaching positions on the horizon.
Background and Previous Successes
Sarkisian’s tenure at Texas began in 2018 after a successful stint as head coach of Washington Huskies from 2013 to 2017. During his time in Seattle, he compiled a record of 34-29 and made brief appearances in the Pac-12 conference. His move to Texas brought with it renewed expectations for success, but the early results have been mixed.
At USC from 2018 to 2019, Sarkisian’s record stood at 12-6 before his departure.
At Texas, he has recorded a total of 42-19 overall and an impressive 25-12 in conference play. Despite these achievements, the current season’s struggles have put pressure on Sarkisian to consider other opportunities.
Implications for Texas and NFL
The search for a new coaching position by Sarkisian has significant implications for both Texas and the NFL landscape. For Texas, it could signify a shift in direction after years of success under Sarkisian’s leadership. The departure of such a high-profile coach would likely lead to changes within the program.
For the NFL, the interest from a proven college head coach like Sarkisian adds depth to an already competitive coaching market. His experience at Texas and previous stints with Washington and USC make him a valuable candidate for any team looking to revamp their roster or improve their performance on the field.
