Mack Brown admits he ‘got tired at Texas’ prior to resignation from Longhorns
Mack Brown, a figure synonymous with college football excellence, has recently opened up about his decision to step away from coaching, shedding light on the personal and professional factors that influenced his choice. Brown’s resignation from the University of Texas in 2013 marked the end of a distinguished 16-year tenure, during which he led the Longhorns to a national championship and numerous conference titles. However, as he reflects on that period, Brown acknowledges that the pressures and challenges of the role eventually led him to a point of exhaustion and contemplation.
In a candid interview, Brown admitted that the relentless demands of coaching at a premier program like Texas took a toll on him. “I got tired,” he confessed, highlighting the emotional and physical strain that accompanied the constant scrutiny and high expectations. Despite achieving significant success, including a national championship in 2005, the burden of maintaining that level of excellence year after year became increasingly challenging.
Brown’s departure was not solely his own decision. University officials, including then-President Bill Powers and Athletic Director Steve Patterson, engaged in discussions with Brown about the future direction of the program. While they offered him the opportunity to return for another season, Brown ultimately felt that a change was necessary for both himself and the university. He described the decision as a “mutual agreement,” emphasizing that it was in the best interest of all parties involved.
Reflecting on the state of the program, Brown noted that Texas had not lived up to its historical standards in recent years. He expressed a desire for the Longhorns to return to the national prominence they enjoyed from 2004 to 2009. Brown believed that stepping aside would allow for new leadership and energy to reinvigorate the team and its supporters. “It’s time for me to move on and let someone else come in and restart the program,” he stated.
Despite the challenges that led to his resignation, Brown’s legacy at Texas remains formidable. He compiled a 158-47 record, securing two Big 12 championships and a national title. His ability to recruit top talent and develop players contributed to the Longhorns’ sustained success during his tenure. Brown’s influence extended beyond the field, as he mentored numerous assistant coaches who went on to have successful careers of their own.
Since stepping away from coaching, Brown has remained active in the football community. He returned to ESPN as an analyst, providing insights and commentary on college football. Additionally, Brown has expressed interest in exploring roles that would allow him to contribute to the sport in a different capacity, such as serving as a commissioner for college football.
Mack Brown’s decision to resign from the University of Texas was influenced by a combination of personal fatigue and a desire for the program to regain its former glory. While his departure marked the end of an era for the Longhorns, Brown’s contributions to college football continue to be felt. His candid reflections on his time at Texas offer valuable insights into the complexities and challenges faced by those at the helm of major college programs.
