Steve Sarkisian Denies NFL Rumors, Commits to Texas Football

The 2025 Texas football season has fallen short of expectations. The Longhorns sit at 7-3, and a lopsided loss to Georgia effectively ended their College Football Playoff hopes. Compounding the disappointment, rumors circulated that head coach Steve Sarkisian might be considering a move to the NFL, stirring uncertainty around the program.

On the weekly SEC teleconference, Sarkisian directly addressed the speculation, delivering a firm denial and reaffirming his commitment to Texas. His statement aimed to end the chatter and refocus attention on the team’s performance and goals.

Sarkisian emphasized his personal ties to the university, noting that his family is rooted in Austin. With two children already enrolled at Texas, a third expected to join, and a newborn son in the city, Sarkisian stressed that the Longhorns are more than a job—they are home.

The coach also highlighted the program’s accomplishments over his five-year tenure, including two College Football Playoff appearances, a Big 12 Championship, and the development of NFL-ready talent, with 23 players drafted over the past two seasons. His message underscored both his pride in the program and his dedication to continuing its growth.

1. Addressing the Rumors

Sarkisian opened his statement by acknowledging the rumors and their potential impact on the team. He called the speculation “absolutely false and untrue” and clarified that he has not had discussions with any NFL teams, agents, or other programs about leaving Texas. The coach explained that he generally avoids addressing distractions publicly but felt compelled to do so given the persistent nature of the reports. By confronting the issue directly, he sought to protect the team from unnecessary speculation. He made it clear that questions about his future should be directed solely to him or Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte, emphasizing transparency and accountability. His insistence on clear lines of communication reflects a desire to maintain focus on the program rather than off-field chatter. Sarkisian’s approach also serves as a message to recruits, players, and staff, signaling stability within the program despite a challenging season and external rumors. It reinforces that the Longhorns are anchored by leadership fully invested in the university’s mission.

2. Commitment to Texas Football

Beyond denying the NFL rumors, Sarkisian used the opportunity to highlight his long-term commitment to Texas. He framed his tenure as a personal and professional investment, detailing the accomplishments and progress the program has achieved under his guidance. From winning a Big 12 title to competing in the SEC Championship game and producing NFL talent, Sarkisian stressed that his focus remains on building a championship-caliber program. He also pointed to academic success, noting the team’s all-time high GPA as evidence of holistic development. Family considerations were central to his statement. With his children enrolled and his family established in Austin, Sarkisian emphasized that his commitment is both professional and personal. This detail strengthens his case for stability amid speculation about a potential NFL move. The coach concluded by reaffirming his long-term vision: he came to Texas to win championships, continue developing players, and leave a lasting impact on the program—a commitment he intends to uphold for years to come.

3. Focus Moving Forward

While the 2025 season has presented challenges, Sarkisian’s statement signals a clear path forward. His focus is on addressing the team’s on-field performance and preparing for the upcoming offseason rather than engaging with external distractions. By firmly closing the door on NFL rumors, Sarkisian provides clarity to the Longhorns’ fanbase and program, ensuring that attention remains on improving results and competing at the highest level. This stance also stabilizes recruiting and staff retention, as the team can operate without lingering uncertainty about the coaching situation. The message is clear: Texas football has continuity at the helm. Sarkisian’s declaration reinforces his commitment to the university and the program he has built, setting the stage for focused preparation for future seasons, regardless of the high-pressure coaching carousel in college football.