Steve Sarkisian Signs Contract Extension with Texas Through 2030

In a move that cements stability and long-term vision for Texas football, head coach Steve Sarkisian has agreed to a contract extension that will keep him in Austin through 2030. The extension comes after Sarkisian turned down interview requests from two NFL teams, demonstrating his commitment to the Longhorns and their pursuit of national championships.

The University of Texas Board of Regents Chairman Kevin Eltife and Athletic Director Chris Del Conte played key roles in finalizing the deal, ensuring that the architect behind Texas’ resurgence remains at the helm. Under Sarkisian’s leadership, the Longhorns have:

✅ Earned consecutive College Football Playoff semifinal berths
✅ Posted back-to-back double-digit win seasons for the first time in 17 years
✅ Reestablished Texas as a national championship contender

With a $10M+ annual salary, private plane access, two luxury cars, and a country club membership, Texas is making it clear that Sarkisian is their long-term choice to lead the program into the SEC era.

Why Texas Extended Sarkisian

This extension is not just about rewarding past success—it’s about solidifying the program’s future. Texas is entering a new era as it transitions to the SEC in 2024, and stability at the head coaching position is critical.

Here’s why Texas made the move to extend Sarkisian:

1. Texas is Back – and Competing at the Highest Level

When Sarkisian took over in 2021, Texas football was struggling with inconsistency. The program had failed to win more than 10 games in a season since 2009 and had become a revolving door of head coaches.

Fast forward to 2023, and Texas is now:

• A legitimate College Football Playoff contender
• Recruiting at an elite level
• One of the most exciting programs in the country

The back-to-back CFP semifinal appearances prove that Sarkisian has built a team capable of competing for national titles, and Texas doesn’t want to risk losing that momentum.

2. Sarkisian’s Buy-In and Commitment to Texas

One of the most telling aspects of this extension is that Sarkisian declined interviews with two NFL teams.

Many college coaches jump at the opportunity to coach in the NFL, but Sarkisian’s decision to stay at Texas speaks volumes.

“The fact Sarkisian didn’t take any NFL interviews shows his buy-in and commitment to the University of Texas,” a source said.

This extension guarantees that Texas will have continuity in leadership, a critical factor as the program moves into a more competitive SEC conference.

3. Recruiting at an Elite Level

Since taking over, Sarkisian has turned Texas into a recruiting powerhouse.

• Texas consistently lands top-5 recruiting classes, bringing in elite talent year after year.
• The 2023 class featured top QB prospect Arch Manning, further solidifying Texas’ future at the most important position.
• With the move to the SEC, Texas needs to continue stacking elite talent to compete with Georgia, Alabama, and LSU.

By locking in Sarkisian through 2030, Texas ensures that recruits can commit to a stable program with a proven leader.

Breaking Down the Details of Sarkisian’s Extension

This long-term deal comes with significant perks, reflecting Texas’ commitment to keeping Sarkisian happy in Austin.

💰 Salary: Over $10 Million Per Year

Sarkisian’s new contract places him among the highest-paid coaches in college football. His salary puts him in the same tier as Nick Saban, Kirby Smart, and Dabo Swinney, reinforcing Texas’ belief that he is one of the best coaches in the country.

✈️ Private Plane for Personal Use

As part of the deal, Sarkisian will have access to a private plane for personal travel, a perk that few coaches receive.

🚙 Two Luxury Vehicles

The contract also includes two high-end cars, adding to the off-field benefits.

⛳️ Country Club Membership

Sarkisian will also receive a membership to an elite country club, a small but valuable incentive.

What This Means for Texas Moving Forward

1. Stability in the SEC Transition

With Texas officially joining the SEC in 2024, keeping Sarkisian was critical.

• The SEC is the most competitive conference in college football.
• Texas needs stability at head coach to compete with powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU.
• Sarkisian’s experience as a former Alabama offensive coordinator gives Texas an edge in preparing for SEC play.

Locking him in through 2030 means that Texas will have a long-term vision in place for this transition.

2. Texas is Serious About Winning National Championships

Texas hasn’t won a national title since 2005, and this deal shows that the school is willing to do whatever it takes to get back on top.

• Sarkisian has already proven he can compete for national titles with CFP appearances.
• With elite recruiting, Texas has the talent to be a perennial playoff contender.
• This extension ensures that the Longhorns will have the resources and stability needed to build a dynasty.

3. Texas Wants to Keep Up with the Coaching Arms Race

In today’s college football landscape, coaching salaries are skyrocketing.

• Nick Saban, Kirby Smart, and Dabo Swinney all make $10M+ per year.
• Top-tier programs can’t afford to lose great coaches due to financial reasons.
• This extension prevents NFL teams from poaching Sarkisian and keeps Texas at the top of the sport.

Final Thoughts: A Huge Win for Texas Football

Steve Sarkisian’s contract extension through 2030 is a massive win for Texas football, its players, and its fans.

✅ Texas locks in a proven winner ahead of its SEC move
✅ Recruiting will benefit from long-term stability
✅ The Longhorns remain a top-tier national championship contender

With elite facilities, one of the best coaches in the country, and a move to the most competitive conference in college football, Texas is positioned for long-term success.

The message is clear: Texas is here to win – and Sarkisian is the man to lead them to the top.