Steve Sarkisian Stuns College Football by Turning Down Massive NIL Offers to Remain at Texas
In a surprising twist that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has reportedly declined two major NIL-related offers from powerhouse programs—Georgia and Notre Dame. Each offer was estimated to be worth a staggering $7.5 million, but Sarkisian opted to remain committed to the Texas program, reinforcing his loyalty and long-term vision for the team.
With the NCAA’s evolving stance on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, big-name programs have begun using substantial NIL packages not only to attract top athletes but, in some cases, to lure coaching talent as well. Georgia and Notre Dame were allegedly prepared to offer Sarkisian lucrative deals to lead their respective football teams, hoping to capitalize on his recent success with Texas. Despite these tempting financial incentives, Sarkisian made it clear that his focus remains on completing what he started in Austin.
The decision is especially notable given the current state of college football, where NIL has transformed the recruiting landscape. Coaches and players alike are navigating a system where financial offers can significantly alter career paths. Sarkisian’s rejection of two of the sport’s biggest brands in favor of loyalty and continuity has been met with both surprise and admiration across the college football community.
Sources close to the situation say Sarkisian is motivated not by money, but by the opportunity to continue building a legacy at Texas. Under his leadership, the Longhorns have made substantial strides, both in recruiting and performance. The team’s upward trajectory and potential for national championship contention seem to have played a major role in his decision.
In staying put, Sarkisian also sends a strong message to recruits and players currently in the program: stability and belief in the system matter. For a team aiming to return to national prominence, having a consistent voice at the helm is crucial.
The reaction from rivals has been swift. Coaches such as Georgia’s Kirby Smart and Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman have expressed their respect for Sarkisian’s choice, even as they acknowledge the competitive edge he brings to Texas. Meanwhile, other coaches have weighed in on the challenges NIL presents, noting that schools are increasingly losing talent—both players and staff—to programs with deeper NIL resources.
Still, Sarkisian’s decision could be viewed as a shift in narrative. While NIL remains a powerful force, it may not always be the deciding factor. Passion for a program, connection with players, and long-term goals can still outweigh pure financial gain.
For Texas fans, the move is energizing. Sarkisian staying in Austin suggests stability during a time of change and reinforces the belief that the Longhorns are headed toward reclaiming their place among college football’s elite. And in a sport increasingly driven by dollar signs, Sarkisian’s loyalty may be just the kind of leadership Texas needs to reach the next level.
Leave a Reply