Texas Coach Steve Sarkisian to Make Over $10 Million per Year With New Contract Extension
In a landmark move that underscores the University of Texas’s commitment to excellence in college football, head coach Steve Sarkisian has been awarded a substantial contract extension, elevating his guaranteed annual salary to over $10 million. This decision follows a series of impressive achievements under his leadership, including a Big 12 championship and the Longhorns’ first-ever appearance in the College Football Playoff.
The University of Texas System Board of Regents approved a four-year extension for Sarkisian, ensuring his tenure through the 2030 season. Effective immediately, his guaranteed salary for 2024 is set at $10.3 million, with annual raises of $100,000, culminating in $10.9 million by 2030. Additionally, Sarkisian will receive a one-time $300,000 bonus and 20 hours of personal use annually on the school’s private plane. His original contract for 2024 was valued at $5.8 million, marking a 78% increase in guaranteed compensation .
Beyond the base salary, Sarkisian’s contract includes performance-based incentives that could significantly enhance his earnings. These incentives are structured as follows:
- $150,000 for each year Texas participates in the SEC Championship Game.
- $300,000 for winning the SEC Championship.
- $100,000 for qualifying for a non-College Football Playoff (CFP) bowl game.
- $250,000 for reaching the first round of the expanded 12-team CFP.
- $500,000 for advancing to the CFP quarterfinals.
- $750,000 for a semifinal appearance.
- $1 million for competing in the CFP National Championship Game.
- $1.25 million for winning the National Championship .
Additionally, Sarkisian is eligible for up to $300,000 in bonuses for postseason coaching honors, including $200,000 for being named National Coach of the Year and $100,000 for Conference Coach of the Year .
Sarkisian’s leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing the Texas Longhorns football program. Under his guidance, the team achieved a 12-2 record in the previous season, securing a Big 12 championship and a No. 3 national ranking. The Longhorns’ narrow 37–31 loss to Washington in the national semifinal highlighted the program’s competitiveness on the national stage .
The substantial investment in Sarkisian reflects the University’s strategic vision as it transitions into the Southeastern Conference (SEC). With the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff on the horizon, the Longhorns aim to leverage their enhanced resources and coaching stability to compete at the highest level.
Sarkisian’s contract extension positions him among the highest-paid coaches in college football, highlighting the increasing financial stakes in the sport. As programs invest heavily in coaching talent to achieve success, the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, with financial considerations playing a pivotal role in shaping team dynamics and performance.
This development also underscores the importance of leadership continuity in achieving sustained success. By securing Sarkisian’s services through 2030, Texas demonstrates a commitment to long-term planning and stability, factors that are crucial as the program navigates the challenges and opportunities presented by its new conference affiliation.
As the Texas Longhorns prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Coach Sarkisian to build upon the momentum of the previous year. With a robust coaching staff, a talented roster, and a clear financial and strategic commitment from the University, the Longhorns are poised to make a significant impact in the SEC and on the national college football landscape.
In conclusion, Steve Sarkisian’s new contract extension not only solidifies his position as a leading figure in college football but also sets the stage for the Texas Longhorns to achieve greater heights in the seasons to come.
