AUSTIN, TX – July 29, 2025 – In a resounding declaration of commitment that sends a clear message across the shifting landscape of college athletics, Texas Longhorns Head Coach Steve Sarkisian has reportedly turned down a staggering $15 million NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) offer from the Michigan State Spartans. This unprecedented sum, which would have significantly augmented his current compensation, was unequivocally rejected by Sarkisian, who stated simply, “My loyalty lies with Longhorns—This Is Home.”
The news, which quickly rippled through the college football world, highlights the increasingly aggressive tactics and substantial financial resources that NIL collectives are now wielding to lure top coaching talent. Sarkisian, who recently signed a new contract with Texas in February 2025, raising his salary to $10.8 million for the 2025 season with escalators set to reach $12.3 million by 2031, was reportedly presented with a multi-year deal from the Michigan State collective that would have provided an additional $15 million in NIL earnings. This would have pushed his total annual compensation far beyond his current agreement, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in the sport, potentially in the $13-$14 million range annually.
Sources close to the negotiations indicated that the Spartans’ offer was meticulously structured to be exceptionally competitive, reflecting their urgent need to elevate their program and acquire a coach with a proven track record of offensive innovation and championship contention. Michigan State, looking to regain its footing in the Big Ten, clearly saw Sarkisian as a game-changer capable of revitalizing their brand.
However, in a brief and poignant statement released by Texas Athletics, Sarkisian shut down the speculation with a definitive declaration: ”My loyalty lies with Longhorns—This Is Home.”
This concise yet powerful statement resonates deeply within the Texas community. Sarkisian has meticulously rebuilt the Longhorns program since his arrival in 2021. After a 5-7 debut season, he led Texas to an 8-5 record in 2022, followed by a Big 12 Championship in 2023 and the team’s first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. In their inaugural SEC season in 2024, the Longhorns impressively made a second consecutive College Football Playoff semifinal appearance, further cementing their return to national prominence. His ability to recruit top-tier talent, including players like Arch Manning, and develop a strong team culture has been widely praised.
“Coach Sarkisian’s commitment to the University of Texas is absolute, and his decision today speaks volumes about the genuine connection he has with this university, our student-athletes, and our incredible fanbase,” said Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte. “We are immensely proud to have him leading our football program. He understands what it means to be a Longhorn – the hard work, the dedication, the pursuit of championships. That sense of belonging and the vision we share, as he clearly stated, means more to him than any financial incentive. This is about building a lasting legacy here on the Forty Acres, and Steve is the right man to lead us into this new era in the SEC.”
Sarkisian’s coaching philosophy, heavily influenced by his time under Pete Carroll at USC and Nick Saban at Alabama, emphasizes a “pro-style” offense that adapts to personnel, combined with a focus on building a strong, “want-to” culture. His success in developing quarterbacks and his reputation as a master play-caller have made him a highly sought-after commodity.
The implications of Sarkisian’s decision are wide-ranging. For the Texas Longhorns, it solidifies stability as they navigate their transition into the fiercely competitive SEC. It sends a powerful message to players, both current and prospective, that the program is built on genuine commitment and a shared vision for national championships. It reinforces the idea that true “home” loyalty still exists in college football, even amidst the escalating NIL wars. This act of loyalty can be a powerful recruiting tool, demonstrating to potential players that their coach is invested in the program’s long-term success, not just personal gain.
For the Michigan State Spartans, the rejection is a significant blow. Despite having a robust NIL collective and a clear intent to invest heavily in their football program, they were unable to pry Sarkisian away. It signals that even unprecedented financial offers may not be enough to sway coaches deeply rooted in their current institutions, especially when a strong cultural connection and established success are in play. Michigan State, currently led by Head Coach Jonathan Smith, continues its efforts to rebuild and compete in the expanded Big Ten.
“This is not just a win for Texas football; it’s a win for the entire narrative of loyalty in college sports,” commented a national college football analyst on ESPN. “In an era where every dollar is being thrown around, Steve Sarkisian chose his current mission, his established culture, and the place he clearly considers home. That kind of unwavering commitment is becoming increasingly rare, and it speaks volumes about his character and the strong foundation he has built at Texas.”
As the college football landscape continues to evolve with the influence of NIL, Sarkisian’s decision stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring power of connection, history, and a sense of belonging. In a sport often criticized for its transient nature and mercenary tendencies, Steve Sarkisian has drawn a clear line in the sand, unequivocally stating that for him, “This Is Home.” The Longhorn Nation will undoubtedly celebrate this commitment with renewed vigor as they look forward to a future built on the values of loyalty and the pursuit of championships.
