In a significant move for the future of Texas football, Head Coach Steve Sarkisian has officially signed a four-year contract extension with the Longhorns. The extension, confirmed by the University of Texas athletics department, will keep the 49-year-old coach at the helm through the 2028 season.
Sarkisian, who took over as head coach in January 2021, has made substantial strides in rebuilding the Texas football program, despite some early struggles. The Longhorns have shown visible improvement under Sarkisian’s leadership, and the team’s recent performances, including a strong finish to the 2023 season, have fueled optimism among fans and university officials alike. His efforts to revitalize the program have earned him the trust and confidence of the Texas administration, culminating in this new contract.
The extension comes after a 2023 season where the Longhorns went 9-4, including a dramatic win over Alabama that showcased the program’s potential. While the team fell short in some crucial matchups, there was significant growth in key areas, particularly on offense. Quarterback Quinn Ewers, a highly touted recruit under Sarkisian, showed flashes of brilliance, and the defense took major strides under coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski.
“Steve has done an exceptional job in building a strong foundation for Texas football,” said Chris Del Conte, the Texas athletic director. “We believe in his vision, and we’re excited to continue the progress he’s making. This contract extension is a testament to his leadership and the direction we’re heading as a program.”
Sarkisian’s coaching resume includes notable stints at Washington, USC, and Alabama, where he served as offensive coordinator. His time with the Crimson Tide, working under head coach Nick Saban, was instrumental in his development as a head coach. Sarkisian’s offensive schemes have been lauded for their creativity and adaptability, which have been a major factor in Texas’s recruitment success.
The contract extension also aligns with the Longhorns’ move to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2024, a monumental shift that will bring heightened competition and challenges for the program. Texas fans are hopeful that Sarkisian’s experience and leadership will position the team for success in the nation’s most competitive college football conference.
With his contract now secure, Sarkisian will be focused on further improving the Longhorns and aiming for the College Football Playoff in the coming seasons. The pressure will only increase as Texas transitions into the SEC, but for now, the Longhorns have demonstrated they are firmly committed to the coach who is leading them into a new era of success.
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