Steve Sarkisian parlayed back-to-back College Football Playoff semifinal appearances into an extension — and not another job.
The Texas head coach has reportedly stiff-armed interest from the NFL and agreed on a contract extension that will keep him in Austin.
According to several reports, one more year will be tacked on to a contract that will run through the 2031 season.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that the agreement comes with a “significant” raise to help make him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.
Sarkisian might have generated legitimate interest from the NFL after a pair of 10-win seasons and a Cotton Bowl loss to Ohio State.
According to the Action Network, Sarkisian declined interviews with two NFL teams and did not formally meet with any team.
“The fact Sarkisian didn’t take any NFL interviews shows his buy-in and commitment to the University of Texas,” a source told the Action Network.
It is not clear which teams wanted to speak with Sarkisian, and an interview with the Cowboys would have presented a fascinating dilemma for football fans in Texas.
Regardless, he apparently decided his future was brighter with Arch Manning, who will take over for Quinn Ewers as Ewers enters the draft.
Sarkisian, who is known as an offensive guru, does have NFL experience, having served as Raiders quarterbacks coach and Falcons offensive coordinator.
But he will return for a fifth season with Texas owning a 38-17 record during his tenure.
