According to ESPN Report: Texas Longhorns Head Coach Steve Sarkisian Shocks College World, Turns Down Stunning $7.5 Million Offer from Georgia and Notre Dame — Vows Loyalty to Texas Longhorns: “I Have No Plans Beyond Being the Head Coach in Austin for Years to Come
In a dramatic and unexpected twist that has left the college football world reeling, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has reportedly rejected a jaw-dropping \$7.5 million per year contract offer jointly proposed by powerhouse programs Georgia and Notre Dame. Instead of pursuing what many believed to be a career-defining opportunity, Sarkisian has chosen to stay committed to Texas, reaffirming his loyalty to the Longhorns with a powerful message: “I have no plans beyond being the head coach at Texas.”
According to ESPN sources, the combined interest from Georgia and Notre Dame was no rumor — both programs were prepared to invest heavily in Sarkisian as part of a bold strategy to reshape their future leadership. Insiders close to the negotiations confirmed that discussions reached an advanced stage, with offers on the table that included long-term incentives, high-profile recruiting packages, and extensive support staff upgrades. Still, Sarkisian remained unmoved.
The decision has sent shockwaves throughout college football, as few expected the Texas coach to walk away from such a lucrative and high-profile opportunity. Sarkisian, who has led the Longhorns through a period of rapid transformation and renewed competitiveness, made it clear that his focus remains firmly on continuing to build something special in Austin.
“This isn’t just about money or prestige,” Sarkisian said during a press conference held Friday morning. “This is about finishing what we’ve started. I came here with a vision, and that vision is still in progress. I’m proud of the culture we’ve built, the players we’ve developed, and the direction this program is heading. Texas is home for me and my family. I’m not leaving.”
Sarkisian’s commitment is already resonating with fans and players alike. Many within the Texas program have praised his leadership, noting that his refusal to chase bigger paychecks elsewhere speaks volumes about his dedication and integrity. Star players took to social media to express their support, with several posting the hashtag #SarkStrong, echoing the sentiment that their coach is all-in.
For Georgia and Notre Dame, the search continues. Both schools had reportedly viewed Sarkisian as their top candidate, and now face the challenge of finding alternatives in a fast-moving coaching market.
Meanwhile, the Longhorns have every reason to celebrate. Sarkisian’s decision not only stabilizes the program but sends a clear message to recruits, alumni, and rivals — Texas is serious about returning to national prominence, and their coach is committed for the long haul.
As college football continues to evolve with conference realignments, expanded playoffs, and escalating coaching salaries, Steve Sarkisian’s move stands out. In a landscape where loyalty is often secondary to opportunity, he’s chosen the harder, more meaningful path: to finish what he started in burnt orange.
