Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has secured a $400,000 salary increase and a contract extension through the 2031 season, solidifying his position at the helm of the program for the foreseeable future. The raise boosts his annual salary to $10.8 million, with incremental increases that will see him earn $12.3 million by the final year of the contract.
The University of Texas Board of Regents approved the raise and extension following Sarkisian’s impressive 2023 campaign, which saw the Longhorns win the Big 12 Championship and earn their first-ever College Football Playoff (CFP) appearance. Under his leadership, Texas finished with a 12-2 record, proving that the program is once again a national contender.
Since taking over in 2021, Sarkisian has steadily built the Longhorns into a powerhouse, improving recruiting, player development, and on-field results. His 2024 recruiting class ranked among the nation’s best, featuring top-tier talent expected to keep Texas competitive in the SEC, where they will begin play in the upcoming season.
Athletic director Chris Del Conte praised Sarkisian’s leadership and vision, emphasizing the need for stability as Texas transitions into college football’s most challenging conference. “Steve has done an incredible job restoring Texas football to national prominence,” Del Conte said. “We believe he’s the right person to lead us into this new era, and this extension ensures he’ll be here for years to come.”
The decision to extend Sarkisian’s contract also sends a strong message to recruits and players, reinforcing the university’s commitment to continuity and long-term success. The Longhorns will face stiff competition in the SEC, going up against perennial powerhouses like Alabama and Georgia, but Sarkisian’s experience—both as a head coach and a former offensive coordinator at Alabama—positions Texas well for the challenge.
With his new deal in place, Sarkisian will continue to shape Texas football’s future, aiming for more conference titles and a return to the College Football Playoff. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Longhorns enter this crucial phase, but one thing is certain: Texas has placed its full trust in Sarkisian to lead the program into the SEC era.
