**SHOCKING: Steve Sarkisian declined two NFL interview opportunities prior to receiving Texas extension**
In the world of college football, where coaching success can quickly catapult a coach into the conversation for professional opportunities, Steve Sarkisian’s decision to turn down two NFL interview offers is nothing short of shocking. This move raises several questions about his career, his priorities, and the overall landscape of college football coaching in the modern era. Just a few months ago, Sarkisian was fresh off an impressive season at the University of Texas, and speculation about his future was already rife. However, despite the allure of the NFL and the potential for further career advancement, Sarkisian chose to remain committed to Texas, opting instead for an extension that secured his future with the Longhorns.
### Sarkisian’s Rising Stock at Texas
Steve Sarkisian’s journey to Texas was not without its hurdles. After stints as offensive coordinator at Washington, USC, and Alabama, Sarkisian became the head coach at Texas in 2021. His first season with the Longhorns was somewhat rocky, as the team failed to meet expectations. However, Sarkisian’s second year showed considerable promise, with the Longhorns showing improvement in several key areas, particularly on offense. The addition of highly regarded recruits and a strong coaching staff only further bolstered Sarkisian’s reputation as a bright mind in college football.
In 2023, the Texas Longhorns took significant strides under Sarkisian’s leadership. With a top-tier recruiting class, solid player development, and a high-scoring offense, Texas became a force in the Big 12 and positioned themselves as a national title contender. It became clear that Sarkisian had firmly established himself as one of the premier coaches in college football, and his success had piqued the interest of NFL teams.
### The NFL’s Interest
For many college coaches, the NFL represents the pinnacle of coaching success, offering a higher salary, more resources, and the challenge of competing against the best players in the world. Sarkisian, who had previous NFL experience as an offensive coordinator with the Oakland Raiders, was no stranger to the professional game. Thus, when reports surfaced that he had turned down interviews with two NFL teams, it raised eyebrows.
The NFL’s interest in Sarkisian likely stemmed from his offensive prowess and his ability to develop young quarterbacks. During his time at Alabama, Sarkisian was instrumental in shaping the careers of players like Mac Jones, Tua Tagovailoa, and Jalen Hurts, all of whom have had varying degrees of success in the NFL. In addition, his innovative playcalling and ability to adapt to different offensive styles made him an attractive candidate for teams looking to revitalize their offenses.
The NFL, however, is not the only career opportunity for a successful college coach. The stakes are high in both leagues, but the college football landscape offers a different set of challenges and rewards. For Sarkisian, there may have been several reasons to decline the NFL interviews and stay with Texas.
### Sarkisian’s Commitment to Texas
At the time he turned down the NFL interviews, Steve Sarkisian was already in the midst of a strong run at Texas. The university, with its rich football history, top-tier facilities, and loyal fan base, was a place where Sarkisian had the potential to build a lasting legacy. After enduring a rocky first year, Sarkisian appeared to be on the verge of turning the Longhorns into a perennial contender.
His decision to turn down the NFL interviews could have been rooted in a sense of loyalty and unfinished business. Texas was about to enter the SEC, the most competitive conference in college football, and Sarkisian had an opportunity to build something truly special. With recruiting on the rise and the team improving in key areas, it seemed like the right time for Sarkisian to double down on his commitment to the Longhorns.
Furthermore, Sarkisian’s relationship with the university and its leadership likely played a role in his decision. University of Texas athletics director Chris Del Conte had been a strong supporter of Sarkisian, and the Longhorns had shown faith in his vision. As a result, Sarkisian may have felt a deep sense of responsibility to the program and its supporters, choosing to remain and continue the work he had started.
### The NFL’s Risky Allure
While the NFL undoubtedly presents a higher salary and an opportunity to compete at the highest level, it also carries significant risks. In the NFL, success is often fleeting, and coaching tenures can be short-lived. Many coaches, even those with impressive résumés, are fired after only a few seasons if they fail to produce immediate results. This high-pressure environment may not have appealed to Sarkisian, especially after his experiences at USC and Washington, where his tenure was marred by inconsistent results and off-field challenges.
In contrast, college football allows for more time to develop players and build a program from the ground up. Sarkisian had a chance to shape the future of Texas football, and turning down the NFL interviews may have been a strategic decision to maintain control over his career trajectory and legacy.
### Looking Ahead: The Future of Texas Football
Sarkisian’s decision to remain at Texas and turn down the NFL was a bold one that has the potential to reshape the future of Longhorns football. With a strong recruiting pipeline, a developing quarterback, and an ever-growing support staff, Sarkisian is well-positioned to take Texas to new heights. The 2025 season and beyond will be crucial for Sarkisian, as he looks to capitalize on the momentum created in previous years and potentially lead the Longhorns to a national championship.
The move also sets a significant precedent for other college coaches who might face similar crossroads in their careers. Sarkisian’s commitment to Texas shows that the college football landscape remains a place where coaches can thrive, even with the allure of the NFL calling. For now, at least, Sarkisian has chosen to continue his journey in Austin, and Texas fans are hoping that his decision will pay off with sustained success and, perhaps, a championship.
In conclusion, Steve Sarkisian’s decision to decline two NFL interview opportunities prior to signing a Texas extension was a shock to many, but it also reflects a deeper commitment to his program and vision. Whether it was the stability and opportunity at Texas or the risks of the NFL that influenced his choice, Sarkisian’s commitment to the Longhorns shows that, for some coaches, the grass may not always be greener on the other side.