Key Highlights
- Rumors suggest Steve Sarkisian is interested in potential head coach openings in the NFL.
- The University of Texas System board of regents approved a contract extension for Sarkisian through 2031.
- A former player and offensive coordinator, Sarkisian has previously worked with multiple current Tennessee Titans.
Steve Sarkisian’s Potential NFL Move: A Closer Look at the Texas Longhorns Coach’s Future
Rumors are swirling that Steve Sarkisian, the head coach of the University of Texas (Texas Longhorns), may be considering a move to the National Football League (NFL). According to reports from NFL insider Dianna Russini, Sarkisian has expressed interest in potential head coaching openings, including the Tennessee Titans’ vacancy.
Sarkisian’s current contract with the University of Texas System was extended through 2031 and includes a raise for his 2025 salary to $10.8 million. This extension comes after he had already brought the Longhorns back to national relevance, securing two College Football Playoff Semifinal appearances with a record of 42-19 in five seasons.
A Seasoned Coach with NFL Experience
While Sarkisian has extensive experience at the collegiate level, his move to the NFL would mark a significant transition. He previously served as an offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons and quarterback coach for the Oakland Raiders. His familiarity with NFL strategies and players could be a valuable asset if he were to take on a head coaching role.
Connections to Current Tennessee Titans Players
Sarkisian’s connection to current Tennessee Titans players, including tight end Gunnar Helm, defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat, and safety Quandre Diggs, could make him an attractive candidate for the position. These players played under Sarkisian at Texas, providing a familiar face and potential mentorship opportunity in Nashville.
The Longhorns’ Future Without Sarkisian
If Sarkisian were to leave Austin for the NFL, it would be a significant development for the University of Texas. The team is currently gearing up for Saturday’s game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs and faces a challenging SEC schedule. A head coaching change could have wide-ranging implications for the program’s future direction and stability.
The decision to potentially leave would also be a departure from Sarkisian’s previous commitment, as he signed a contract extension in February 2023. This move reflects the uncertainty often present in college football coaching, where financial incentives and personal aspirations can sometimes conflict with institutional loyalty.
Conclusion
The future of Steve Sarkisian at the University of Texas is now more uncertain than ever. As rumors persist about his potential move to the NFL, fans, alumni, and critics will be watching closely. Whether or not he ends up leaving Austin for Nashville remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the impact on the Texas Longhorns program could be significant.
The coming weeks and months will reveal whether these whispers turn into reality, shaping the trajectory of both Sarkisian’s career and the future of the University of Texas football program.
