Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is increasingly being linked with a future in the NFL, with the Tennessee Titans emerging as a prospective destination amid ongoing concerns about Arch Manning’s injury status. The Longhorns’ 51-year-old coach, who has led Texas to significant successes including a 2023 Big 12 championship, is reportedly eyeing a move to the professional ranks as questions linger around his star quarterback’s durability.
Sarkisian’s NFL Aspirations Gain Momentum
Despite a strong start to the 2025 college football season, with Texas holding a 5-2 record largely thanks to Arch Manning’s leadership at quarterback, rumors have surfaced that Sarkisian’s representatives have initiated contact with NFL teams exploring head coaching vacancies. One key team that has been mentioned is the Tennessee Titans, who currently find themselves without a permanent head coach after a rough start that saw them go 1-6 and part ways with Brian Callahan.
Interim head coach Mike McCoy has overseen just one game, a heavy loss to the Patriots, making his prospects of securing the Titans’ top position uncertain. This opening has spotlighted Sarkisian as a strong candidate, given his college coaching credentials and offensive expertise. His coaching style and ability to develop quarterback talent, exemplified by his work with Arch Manning, align well with what some NFL franchises look for in rebuilding phases.
Arch Manning’s Injury Concerns Add to the Drama
Arch Manning, one of college football’s brightest quarterback prospects and a cornerstone of Texas football’s current campaign, has encountered some injury issues during the season. These health setbacks have raised questions about the Longhorns’ immediate and future competitiveness. As Manning’s condition remains a focal concern, it could factor into Sarkisian’s decision to transition to the NFL. Moving to a role in professional football might provide Sarkisian with a fresh challenge and possibly more stability than managing injury uncertainties at the collegiate level.
Sarkisian’s Camp Responds to Speculation
Shortly after reports emerged suggesting Sarkisian’s NFL ambitions, representatives for the Texas head coach issued a firm denial. Agents Jimmy Sexton and Ed Marynowitz clarified to the press that Sarkisian is fully committed to his role at the University of Texas and that reports about his NFL pursuits are “patently false and wildly inaccurate.” This response underscores the complexity behind coaching transitions and the delicate balance between speculation and official intent.
Tennessee Titans’ Coaching Situation and NFL Landscape
The Titans’ current coaching quandary presents a ripe opportunity for Sarkisian should he choose to leave college football. With Mike McCoy positioned only as an interim solution after the firing of Callahan, Tennessee is actively seeking a long-term head coach to guide the franchise out of a dismal season. The organization’s openness to new leadership could make it an attractive setting for Sarkisian’s possible NFL debut.
Beyond Tennessee, other NFL teams including the Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, and Arizona Cardinals are also underperforming and may consider coaching changes. Yet, as things stand, no other confirmed head coaching vacancies exist, which might make the Titans the most immediate destination if Sarkisian opts for the NFL.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season progresses, all eyes remain on Arch Manning’s health and Texas’ overall performance. Simultaneously, Steve Sarkisian’s potential leap to the NFL continues to generate buzz, especially with the Titans in need of a strong leader. Whether the head coach will ultimately seize an opportunity in professional football or remain dedicated to rebuilding Texas into a college powerhouse will likely unfold over the coming months — a narrative that closely intertwines with Manning’s career trajectory and the Longhorns’ pursuit of football excellence.
