In Austin, Texas, Steve Sarkisian solidifies his status as one of college football’s top earners, with the University of Texas System Board of Regents granting him a lucrative contract extension and salary increase.
The approval comes as Sarkisian’s guaranteed earnings soar to $10.3 million for the current year, and his coaching tenure extends through 2030.
The extension, spanning four years, positions Sarkisian among the elite in coaching compensation nationally, a testament to Texas’s triumph in the Big 12 last season and its inaugural appearance in the College Football Playoff.
This substantial raise includes incremental annual boosts of $100,000, culminating in a projected $10.9 million salary by 2030.
Additionally, Sarkisian stands to benefit from a one-time $300,000 bonus and enjoys 20 hours of personal use annually aboard the university’s private aircraft.
Notably, Sarkisian’s potential earnings could exceed $1.5 million in bonuses contingent upon the Longhorns clinching a national championship.
This remarkable renegotiation contrasts sharply with his original contract, which slated him for a $5.8 million payout in 2024.
The Regents’ agenda outlines a staggering 78% overall increase in Sarkisian’s guaranteed compensation.
While the contract’s approval was anticipated, it formally ratifies the extension first announced in January, with detailed financial provisions disclosed in the board’s meeting agenda the preceding week.
Texas’s remarkable 12-2 finish and No. 3 ranking last season, marred only by a close loss to Washington in the national semifinal, underscored Sarkisian’s leadership prowess.
Moreover, clinching the Big 12 title in their final season before transitioning to the Southeastern Conference bolsters the Longhorns’ standing.
At 49, Sarkisian boasts a commendable record of 25-14 across his three-year tenure at Texas, further justifying the Board’s confidence in his coaching acumen.
Additionally, the Regents greenlit contract extensions for key coaching staff, including tight ends coach Jeff Banks, offensive coordinator Kyle Flood, and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, underscoring the institution’s commitment to coaching continuity and success.
