College football operates in a unique space within the sports world, blending the glitz and financial allure of professional leagues with its distinct charm and culture. Despite its massive popularity and revenue, it is considered a level below the NFL in terms of competition. However, the financial gap has narrowed significantly, with top college coaches earning as much, if not more, than their NFL counterparts. This creates a dilemma for coaches like Texas’ Steve Sarkisian, who may soon face an intriguing choice between staying in college football or pursuing NFL glory.
Sarkisian’s Potential NFL Opportunity
With the reports of NFL interest in Steve Sarkisian, I feel the need to remind you that there is NOT a single NFL head coach on this list that hasn’t been to multiple Super Bowls or won a Super Bowl.
Sark would need to take a salary hit to leave for the NFL https://t.co/OxvEhsxtd0
— Nash (@NashTalksTexas) January 5, 2025
NFL teams are reportedly eyeing Sarkisian as a candidate for head coaching positions. According to Adam Schefter, several franchises with current or upcoming vacancies are interested in the Texas coach. Sarkisian’s prior NFL experience as a quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator with the Raiders and Falcons adds to his appeal. However, the move to the NFL would likely require a significant pay cut. Sarkisian currently earns $10.3 million annually, making him the fourth-highest-paid coach in college football. Only seven NFL coaches earn more, and all have either won or reached multiple Super Bowls.
Sarkisian would need to prove himself in the NFL, where the level of play and the challenges are greater. This raises the question: is the potential prestige of coaching in the NFL worth the financial sacrifice?
Sarkisian’s Position at Texas
Sarkisian is firmly entrenched at Texas, especially after signing a lucrative contract extension following a strong 2023 season that included a College Football Playoff berth. Expectations for the Longhorns are sky-high as they prepare to join the SEC. With Arch Manning, the highly-touted quarterback, set to lead the team next season, Texas will do everything possible to retain Sarkisian. The coach himself is likely focused on the immediate goal of defeating Ohio State and reaching the national championship.
Possible NFL Landing Spots
If Sarkisian does decide to test NFL waters, the Chicago Bears emerge as a potential destination. The Bears are reportedly looking for an offensive-minded head coach to develop their rookie quarterback, Caleb Williams. While Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is considered a top candidate, Sarkisian’s extensive experience with quarterbacks makes him an appealing alternative. His track record of working with young talent could align well with the Bears’ needs.
The Bigger Picture
This situation highlights a broader debate about the dynamics between college football and the NFL. Sarkisian must weigh the prestige and challenges of the NFL against the stability and financial rewards of college football. His decision will likely hinge on whether he values the opportunity to coach at the highest level of football over his current success and security at Texas.
As the season unfolds, the outcome of Texas’ campaign and potential NFL offers will shape Sarkisian’s future. For now, both college football and the NFL eagerly await his decision. Will he risk a pay cut for a shot at NFL glory, or will he continue to reign as one of college football’s top coaches?