Under Chris Del Conte, Texas coaches like Steve Sarkisian and others have generally performed well, leading to improved team success and positive recruiting outcomes.

Since assuming the role of Texas Athletics Director in 2017, Chris Del Conte has been a pivotal figure in shaping the trajectory of the Texas Longhorns football program. His tenure has been marked by strategic hires, investment in facilities, and a focus on elevating the Longhorns back to national prominence. Central to his leadership has been the hiring of key coaches, most notably head football coach Steve Sarkisian, along with coordinators and support staff who contribute to the team’s competitive success.

This comprehensive analysis will evaluate how the coaching hires under Chris Del Conte have fared, their impact on team performance, recruiting, and the program’s overall trajectory. Special emphasis will be placed on Steve Sarkisian, whose tenure has been instrumental in Texas’s recent resurgence. Additionally, the review will consider other notable hires, the broader strategy behind these decisions, and the future outlook for the program.

Background: Chris Del Conte’s Vision and Hiring Philosophy

Chris Del Conte arrived at Texas with a reputation for thoughtful, strategic leadership. His approach to hiring coaches has been characterized by a focus on experience, proven success, and alignment with the university’s ambitions. Del Conte’s priority has been restoring Texas football to its former national dominance, emphasizing recruiting prowess, player development, and a strong culture.

His tenure includes several high-profile coaching decisions, from the hiring of Tom Herman in 2017 to the pivotal appointment of Steve Sarkisian in 2021. These hires reflect a broader philosophy: bringing in coaches with a mix of NFL experience, proven winning records, and the ability to develop talent while elevating recruiting efforts.

The Sarkisian Era: From Controversy to Competitiveness

Hiring and Expectations

In January 2021, Chris Del Conte made a bold move by hiring Steve Sarkisian, a seasoned coach with NFL experience and a history of offensive innovation. Sarkisian’s previous head coaching stints at Washington and Alabama, along with his offensive acumen, made him an attractive candidate to lead Texas’s football renaissance.

The expectations were high: Texas aimed to compete immediately at the highest levels, bolster recruiting, and bring a cohesive, aggressive style of play. Del Conte’s decision demonstrated confidence in Sarkisian’s ability to transform the program into a Big 12 and SEC contender.

Initial Challenges and Growth

Sarkisian inherited a roster that had experienced turnover and inconsistency. His first season (2021) was a rebuilding year, marked by growing pains but also notable improvements in offensive production and team culture. The 2022 season saw tangible progress, with the team competing fiercely and showcasing offensive explosiveness.

Performance and Results

While Sarkisian’s tenure is still relatively young, early signs suggest a positive trajectory:

• Team Success: The Longhorns posted improved records, competitive games against top opponents, and a return to bowl eligibility. Their 2022 season, for instance, was viewed as a step forward.
• Recruiting Impact: Sarkisian’s NFL background and offensive success have boosted Texas’s recruiting profile, attracting top-tier talent from across the country.
• Player Development: The coaching staff has helped develop key players into NFL prospects, reflecting Sarkisian’s focus on player growth.

Broader Impact

Del Conte’s decision to hire Sarkisian has been widely regarded as a success. It signaled Texas’s commitment to modern offensive schemes, disciplined football, and recruiting excellence. The hire also helped Texas re-establish a national reputation, which is crucial as the program transitions into the SEC era.

Other Notable Coaching Hires Under Chris Del Conte

While Sarkisian’s impact is most prominent, Del Conte’s tenure also includes several key hires that have contributed to the program’s overall development:

1. Recruiting Coordinators and Assistant Coaches

Del Conte prioritized hiring recruiting-savvy coaches to bolster Texas’s ability to attract top talent. For example, the addition of high-profile assistant coaches with NFL and college backgrounds has helped Texas land elite prospects, especially in the state of Texas and nationally.

2. Strength and Conditioning Staff

Investments in state-of-the-art facilities and top-tier strength coaches have improved player development and durability, which are critical for sustained success.

3. Support and Leadership Staff

Del Conte has also made strategic hires in athletic administration and support roles, ensuring that the football program operates with a focus on excellence both on and off the field.

Impact of the Coaching Hires: Progress, Challenges, and Future Outlook

Progress and Positive Indicators

• Improved Competitiveness: Under Del Conte’s leadership, Texas has become more competitive against traditional powerhouses and top conference rivals.
• Recruiting Success: The program has landed nationally ranked classes, including top-tier in-state prospects, which is vital for sustained success.
• Facilities and Resources: Significant investments have been made in facilities, training centers, and support staff, creating an environment conducive to winning.
• Player Development: The focus on development has helped players reach their potential, with several earning NFL opportunities.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite these advances, challenges remain:

• Consistency: Texas has yet to fully realize consistent national championship contention, often falling short in big games.
• Transition to SEC: The move to the SEC presents a new level of competition, requiring further coaching excellence and strategic adjustments.
• Recruiting in a Competitive Market: Texas faces stiff competition from other powerhouse programs, necessitating ongoing coaching excellence and innovative recruiting strategies.

Future Outlook

Del Conte’s coaching hires, especially Sarkisian, have laid a solid foundation for future success. The focus now is on:

• Sustaining Player Development: Continuing to develop NFL-caliber talent.
• Enhancing Recruiting: Maintaining top-tier recruiting classes amidst SEC competition.
• Building a Winning Culture: Fostering resilience and consistency in performance.
• Adapting to SEC Demands: Preparing coaching staff and players for the increased difficulty of SEC schedules.

Broader Implications: The Role of Leadership in Program Success

Chris Del Conte’s leadership exemplifies the importance of strategic, deliberate hiring in college athletics. His ability to identify coaches with the right blend of experience, vision, and recruiting acumen has been instrumental in Texas’s upward trajectory.

Furthermore, his emphasis on investing in infrastructure, support staff, and athlete development underscores a comprehensive approach to building a sustainable, winning program.

A Promising Path Forward

Since Chris Del Conte took over as Texas Athletics Director, the program’s coaching landscape has experienced significant positive change. The hire of Steve Sarkisian stands out as a pivotal moment, transforming the team’s offensive identity, elevating recruiting, and setting a foundation for future success. Other coaching hires and support staff investments have complemented this progress, leading to a more competitive and well-resourced Longhorns football program.

While challenges remain, particularly as Texas prepares for the SEC’s heightened level of competition, the strategic approach under Del Conte’s leadership suggests a bright future. Continued emphasis on coaching excellence, player development, and innovative recruiting will be essential to realize Texas’s ultimate goal: returning to national championship contention and establishing dominance in college football’s most competitive conference.

In summary, the coaches hired under Chris Del Conte have generally fared well, contributing to a revitalized Texas football program that is poised for continued growth and success in the coming years.