Texas’ Steve Sarkisian expected to draw NFL interest after CFP

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is reportedly attracting attention from NFL teams.

This is according ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who indicated on “Sunday NFL Countdown” that teams are expecting to contact Sarkisian following a strong season at Texas.

Sarkisian, 50, led the No. 3-seeded Longhorns to a win over Arizona State in the Peach Bowl, and they’ll play Ohio State next in the College Football Playoff semifinals on Jan. 10.

Sarkisian’s background includes extensive experience in both college and the NFL, making him a compelling candidate for head coaching roles at the next level.

Head coach Steve Sarkisian of the Texas Longhorns lifts the trophy after defeating the Arizona State Sun Devils 39-31 during the second overtime in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 1, 2025. Getty Images

Before his tenure at Texas, Sarkisian served as the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons from 2017-18, before a successful stint at Alabama as offensive coordinator under Nick Saban.

He also held a position with the Oakland Raiders as a quarterbacks coach in 2004.

While the speculation surrounding his future has grown, Sarkisian has remained focused on his responsibilities at Texas.

Steve Sarkisian was an offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons from 2017-2018. Getty Images

When asked about potential NFL interest, he responded by emphasizing his current commitment.

“I’m not entertaining that idea right now,” Sarkisian stated, highlighting his desire to lead the Longhorns deeper into the postseason.

However, as NFL coaching vacancies inevitably arise, it wouldn’t be surprising to see his name continue to circulate in discussions about potential candidates.

Sarkisian was the head coach at University of Washington from 2009-13 and at USC from 2014-15. He was fired by USC during the 2015 after reported alcohol-related incidents.