The Board of Regents for the University of Texas System took significant action on Thursday, granting a raise and extending the contract of head football coach Steve Sarkisian. This decision comes after the Longhorns made a notable achievement by reaching the College Football Playoff semifinals for the second year running.
Sarkisian’s new contract extends through the 2031 season, increasing his salary this year from $10.4 million to $10.8 million. As part of the agreement, he will receive annual raises that will elevate his salary to $12.3 million by the last year of the deal.
In addition to Sarkisian, the regents also approved contract extensions and raises for special teams coordinator Jeff Banks and linebackers coach Johnny Nansen. Banks’ contract has been extended through 2027, with an annual salary of $1.3 million. Nansen’s contract is now extended to 2026, where he will earn $1.2 million.
Notably, Texas stands out as the only program to qualify for the College Football Playoff (CFP) in both of the previous seasons. The Longhorns achieved a remarkable milestone by reaching the No. 1 ranking during the midseason of 2024, marking their first time in that position in 16 years. They also competed in the Southeastern Conference championship during their inaugural season in the league.
At 50 years old, Sarkisian has a record of 38 wins and 17 losses over four seasons with Texas. Looking ahead, his team is expected to be a strong contender for the national championship next season, especially with Arch Manning poised to step in as the starting quarterback.
Arch Manning, the son of Cooper Manning, grandson of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, and nephew of Super Bowl champions Peyton and Eli Manning, performed well this past season. He went 2-0 as a starter during Quinn Ewers’ injury absence, throwing for 939 yards and nine touchdowns while also rushing for four touchdowns.
Quinn Ewers has decided to enter the NFL Draft after three seasons leading the Texas team. He was one of 14 players from Texas invited to the NFL Draft combine, further indicating his readiness for the next level.
