BREAKING NEWS: Steve Sarkisian Opens Up — Reflects on His Time at Texas and Reveals the Real Reasons Behind His untimely Retirement from Active Football

BREAKING NEWS: Steve Sarkisian Opens Up — Reflects on His Time at Texas and Reveals the Real Reasons Behind His Retirement from Active Football

June 14, 2025 – Austin, Texas

In a heartfelt and revealing interview that has sent ripples through the college football world, Steve Sarkisian, former head coach of the Texas Longhorns, has officially broken his silence regarding his unexpected retirement from active football. Speaking candidly for the first time since announcing his decision earlier this year, Sarkisian shared deep reflections on his time at the University of Texas and the personal and professional reasons that led to his retirement.

“Texas Will Always Be a Part of Me”

In the opening moments of the interview, Sarkisian expressed profound gratitude to the University of Texas community — the administration, players, staff, and most of all, the fans.

> “Coaching at Texas was one of the greatest honors of my life. It challenged me, inspired me, and gave me relationships I’ll carry with me forever,” Sarkisian said. “The fans in Austin are second to none. The way they live and breathe Longhorn football is something I’ll never forget.”

Sarkisian, who took over as head coach in 2021, led the Longhorns through several transformative seasons. Under his guidance, the team saw a significant resurgence in national relevance, culminating in major bowl appearances and highly ranked recruiting classes.

Despite some early struggles, Sarkisian’s tenure was marked by a relentless commitment to rebuilding the culture, instilling discipline, and fostering leadership both on and off the field.

> “We didn’t just want to win games; we wanted to build young men. That’s what coaching has always been about for me,” he added.

The Turning Point

While many speculated that health or institutional pressures were behind Sarkisian’s exit, the coach clarified that the decision was rooted in a more complex mixture of personal reflection, family priorities, and the intense demands of the profession.

> “Football is a consuming job. You give it everything — your time, your energy, your heart. And after more than two decades of coaching, I realized that I had been pouring from an empty cup,” Sarkisian revealed. “I needed to step back and think about what matters most: my health, my family, and my future beyond the game.”

Sarkisian spoke openly about the toll that coaching at a high-profile program takes on one’s physical and mental well-being.

> “There were nights I didn’t sleep. Days I missed birthdays, anniversaries, even important milestones with my kids. That catches up to you. I didn’t want to keep sacrificing that time,” he said with emotion.

He emphasized that his departure was not due to pressure from the university or any internal conflict, but rather a decision born out of peace and perspective.

> “This wasn’t about quitting — this was about knowing when to pivot. About having the courage to walk away on my own terms.”

Reflecting on Legacy

When asked about what he hoped his legacy at Texas would be, Sarkisian humbly deferred the spotlight to his players and coaching staff.

> “I hope people remember that we played hard, we played smart, and we did it the right way. Wins and losses matter — absolutely — but what I’m proudest of are the young men who graduated, who became leaders, who learned to overcome adversity.”

Sarkisian highlighted moments such as the Longhorns’ comeback win in the Red River Rivalry and the development of young, homegrown talent as key memories from his time in Austin.

He also credited the university administration and athletic department for their unwavering support during his tenure.

> “Chris Del Conte believed in me from day one. I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive environment. We were aligned in vision and values.”

What’s Next?

Though he’s stepping away from active coaching, Sarkisian made it clear that he is not walking away from the game entirely. He plans to stay involved in football through mentoring, broadcasting, and possibly working in advisory roles.

> “Football will always be part of who I am. I’m just exploring a different lane now — one that lets me give back to the game in new ways, without being on the sideline every Saturday,” he said.

He hinted at potential interest in launching a foundation focused on mental health and leadership development for young athletes — an area he says he’s grown increasingly passionate about in recent years.

> “If my journey can help someone else find balance, purpose, or healing, then it was all worth it.”

In closing, Sarkisian offered a heartfelt message to Longhorn Nation:

> “To every player who gave me their trust, every assistant who believed in the vision, and every fan who showed up through the highs and lows — thank you. You gave me memories I’ll cherish for life. I’ll always bleed burnt orange.”

As Texas looks to a new chapter under incoming leadership, the impact of Steve Sarkisian’s time in Austin will not be forgotten. A coach who embraced both triumph and trial with equal grace, Sarkisian leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, integrity, and unwavering love for the game.