Following Texas’ dramatic comeback win over Mississippi State, head coach Steve Sarkisian found himself in the center of a media storm sparked by an unflattering report suggesting he was eyeing an NFL coaching role. The moment came amid his team’s victory, yet the joy was overshadowed by the controversy surrounding the report. Quarterback Arch Manning’s injury during the game added to the tension, making the press conference a mix of emotions and frustration.
The report, published on Saturday morning by The Athletic, claimed that Sarkisian’s representatives had indicated an interest in NFL head coaching openings, including a potential position with the Tennessee Titans. The report’s implications were immediate, leading Sarkisian’s agents to issue a statement, declaring the information ‘patently false and wildly inaccurate.’ This was an unusual move for the coaching team, which has historically avoided making public statements on rumor mill claims.
Sarkisian himself took to the press conference to address the situation, expressing his disappointment with the media’s handling of the report. He called the release of the report ‘absolutely ridiculous’ and noted that it was a single individual’s actions that led to widespread belief in the rumor. The backlash, he argued, was ‘borderline embarrassing’ for the media, and he criticized the lack of scrutiny from outlets that amplified the claims without evidence.
Despite the distractions, Sarkisian reiterated his commitment to the Longhorns, emphasizing that he has a ‘small circle’ of trusted advisors who decide his professional path. He made it clear that his focus is on his current team, with Texas currently ranked No. 22 and boasting a 6-2 record. The team’s performance, however, has been mixed this season, with challenges in maintaining the offensive consistency that many had expected. Nevertheless, the possibility of another College Football Playoff appearance remains on the table, as Texas did so in 2024.
Sarkisian’s comments reflect a broader sentiment within coaching circles, where the constant flow of rumors can be as damaging as any on-field performance. His frustration underscores the need for responsible reporting and the importance of maintaining trust between athletes, coaches, and the media. As the season progresses, the focus will remain on the Longhorns’ performance, with Sarkisian determined to keep his team’s attention on the game rather than the speculation surrounding his potential NFL moves.