As the Texas Longhorns prepare for their College Football Playoff semifinal against Ohio State, rumors have surfaced suggesting that head coach Steve Sarkisian may attract interest from NFL teams seeking new leadership. These speculations, however, have been met with firm dismissal from Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte, who referred to them as “stupid” and mere “fodder” intended to distract the team ahead of their crucial matchup.

The rumors gained traction following a report by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who indicated that NFL teams are expected to reach out to Sarkisian after the College Football Playoff. Schefter noted, “I would expect some teams to call and inquire about Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian, who has drawn some interest from the NFL level.” 

In response to these reports, Del Conte expressed his frustration, stating, “We’ve got a game to play. I’m not going to comment. Somebody’s just creating fodder before our biggest game. That’s stupid.” 

Sarkisian, 50, has an extensive coaching background that includes experience at both the collegiate and professional levels. Before joining Texas, he served as the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons from 2017 to 2018 and held a similar position at the University of Alabama under Nick Saban. His previous head coaching roles include tenures at the University of Washington and the University of Southern California. 

Under Sarkisian’s leadership, the Longhorns have experienced a resurgence, culminating in a Peach Bowl victory over Arizona State and a berth in the College Football Playoff semifinals. This success has inevitably led to speculation about his future, with some analysts suggesting that NFL teams with head coaching vacancies might view him as a viable candidate.

Despite the swirling rumors, Sarkisian has remained focused on the task at hand. When questioned about potential NFL interest, he emphasized his commitment to the Longhorns, stating, “I’m not entertaining that idea right now,” and highlighting his dedication to leading Texas further into the postseason. 

The timing of these rumors has raised concerns about potential distractions as the Longhorns prepare for one of their most significant games in recent history. Del Conte’s swift dismissal of the speculation aims to keep the team’s attention squarely on their upcoming challenge against Ohio State.

It’s worth noting that coaching rumors are commonplace in college football, especially when a coach achieves notable success. However, the immediate focus for Sarkisian and the Longhorns remains their pursuit of a national championship. As the team readies itself for the semifinal clash, the emphasis is on preparation and performance, leaving little room for external distractions.

In conclusion, while reports of NFL interest in Steve Sarkisian have emerged, both he and Athletic Director Chris Del Conte have made it clear that their current focus is on the Longhorns’ success in the College Football Playoff. As the team gears up to face Ohio State, the priority remains on the field, with any discussions about future opportunities deferred until after the season’s end.