Steve Sarkisian is one of the most recognized names in the world of American football. Known for his exceptional coaching career in both college football and the NFL, Sarkisian has significantly shaped offenses with his innovative strategies and quarterback development skills. His career, filled with triumphs, controversies, and personal challenges, has made him an iconic figure in the sport. This article takes an in-depth look at Steve Sarkisian’s life, coaching career, personal life, controversies, and more.
Early Life and Playing Career
Steve Sarkisian was born on March 8, 1974, in Torrance, California. His football journey began as a talented quarterback in high school, where he showed great promise on the field. Sarkisian played college football at Brigham Young University (BYU) after a stint at El Camino College. At BYU, he played quarterback from 1995 to 1997, demonstrating solid leadership skills, although his playing career didn’t reach the highest professional levels. Following college, Sarkisian played for a short time in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Sarkisian’s playing career may not have been marked by superstar status, but it laid the foundation for what would become a stellar coaching career. His passion for football and understanding of the game transitioned seamlessly into coaching, where he would make his name as one of the most respected minds in the sport.
Steve Sarkisian Coaching Career and Achievements
From USC to Texas: Sarkisian’s Coaching Journey
Steve Sarkisian’s coaching career began in the NFL, where he worked as a quarterbacks coach for the Oakland Raiders in 2004. However, it was his time in college football that truly made him a household name. Sarkisian’s first major head coaching role came with the Washington Huskies, where he served from 2009 to 2013. Under his leadership, the Huskies experienced a resurgence, moving up the ranks in the Pac-12 and earning bowl game invitations.
His next stop was at USC (University of Southern California), where Sarkisian served as head coach from 2014 to 2015. His tenure at USC, however, was marred by controversy related to personal issues, which led to his firing in 2015. Despite the setback, Sarkisian rebounded strongly with a role as the Offensive Coordinator at Alabama from 2016 to 2018 under Nick Saban. During his time at Alabama, Sarkisian’s offensive playbook flourished, contributing to the team’s continued success.
In 2021, Sarkisian became the head coach at the University of Texas. His move to Texas marked a new chapter in his career, with the Longhorns looking to return to national prominence. Sarkisian’s offensive schemes and ability to develop quarterbacks like Quinn Ewers have brought excitement to Texas football, making him a key figure in the school’s pursuit of excellence in college football.
Offensive Strategy and Influence
Steve Sarkisian is best known for his offensive genius. Over the years, he has built a reputation for crafting high-powered, balanced offenses, with a special focus on quarterback development. His offensive schemes, often characterized by up-tempo play, spread formations, and a heavy use of the passing game, have been implemented at every level of football he’s coached.
Sarkisian’s time as an Offensive Coordinator at both Alabama and Texas allowed him to implement his philosophy, and his offenses have consistently ranked among the best in the country. His offensive scheme is dynamic, often blending traditional rushing attacks with innovative passing concepts. Sarkisian’s playbooks are designed to highlight his quarterbacks’ strengths, and this has led to the development of some of the best quarterbacks in the country, including Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Quinn Ewers.
Steve Sarkisian Controversies and Personal Struggles
Sarkisian’s career has not been without controversy. One of the most publicized moments of his career came during his time at USC, where his battle with alcoholism became well-known. Sarkisian’s struggles with alcohol and personal issues led to a leave of absence in 2015, and he was eventually fired by USC.
In the years following his firing, Sarkisian sought treatment and publicly opened up about his struggles. His journey to sobriety has been an important part of his story. He has used his personal experiences to connect with players and offer them guidance on overcoming adversity. Sarkisian has continued to advocate for mental health and sobriety, emphasizing the importance of transparency and personal growth.
Family and Personal Life
Steve Sarkisian’s personal life has also been a subject of public interest. He has been married twice, first to Stephanie Sarkisian, with whom he shares three children. After their divorce in 2016, Sarkisian remarried Loreal Smith in 2020. The couple has one child together, and they have been open about their family life in public. Sarkisian’s second marriage to Loreal has been a cornerstone of his stability in recent years.
In addition to his immediate family, Sarkisian has often spoken about the role of faith and family in his life. His experiences with both the challenges and rewards of family life have influenced his coaching philosophy, particularly in his approach to mentoring players.
Steve Sarkisian Salary, Net Worth, and Contract Details
Steve Sarkisian is one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. His current salary as the head coach at Texas is approximately $10.3 million per year and is expected to increase in the coming years due to contract extensions. Sarkisian’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million, though this figure could rise significantly due to his high earnings from coaching.
Sarkisian’s contract extension at Texas has been a sign of the school’s commitment to his vision and leadership. He signed a multi-year contract that runs through 2031, with his salary expected to increase over time. This long-term commitment shows the faith that Texas has in Sarkisian’s ability to turn the program into a consistent national contender.
Steve Sarkisian Legacy and Impact on College Football
As of 2026, Steve Sarkisian continues to shape the landscape of college football with his offensive strategies and coaching acumen. His influence is felt both in the college football world and beyond, with many players, coaches, and analysts pointing to him as one of the top offensive minds in the game. Sarkisian’s legacy, while still in progress, will undoubtedly include his ability to lead and innovate in the football world.
Coaching Record and Stats
- Head Coaching Record: Sarkisian’s career as a head coach has been marked by notable success, with bowl game appearances and conference championships.
- Coaching Influence: His work with quarterbacks and offensive schemes has been widely praised, with several of his former quarterbacks going on to have successful careers in the NFL.
Conclusion
Steve Sarkisian’s journey is one of resilience, innovation, and transformation. From a promising college quarterback to one of the most respected coaches in college football, Sarkisian has made his mark. His ability to bounce back from personal challenges and controversies has only added to his narrative, making him an even more compelling figure in the world of sports. As he continues to lead the Texas Longhorns, his story will remain one of redemption, excellence, and leadership in the ever-evolving world of American football.
