Steve Sarkisian is an American football coach and former quarterback, best known as the head coach of the University of Texas Longhorns. Born on March 8, 1974, in Torrance, California, Sarkisian has built a reputation as one of the most tactical and resilient figures in college football.
Over his decades-long career, he has coached at powerhouse programs such as USC, Alabama, and Washington, as well as in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons. Known for his offensive brilliance and leadership, Sarkisian led the Longhorns to the Big 12 Championship in 2023 and back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances.
Before coaching, he was a standout quarterback at Brigham Young University (BYU), where he earned national recognition and the Sammy Baugh Trophy for being the nation’s top passer. His playing and coaching journey showcases both perseverance and a deep passion for football.
Quick Facts of Steve Sarkisian
| Full Name | Stephen Ambrose Sarkisian |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 8, 1974 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 51 years old |
| Place of Birth | Torrance, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Armenian-Irish |
| Religion | Catholic |
| Education | BYU (B.A. in Sociology) |
| Playing Career | Quarterback – BYU, Saskatchewan Roughriders (CFL) |
| Current Position | Head Coach, University of Texas |
| Conference | SEC |
| Annual Salary (2024) | $10.3 million |
| Overall Coaching Record | 89–54 (.622) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $12–15 million |
| Spouse | Loreal Smith (m. 2020, briefly separated in 2024, later reconciled) |
| Ex-Wife | Stephanie Sarkisian |
| Children | Four (three from first marriage, one with Loreal) |
| Awards | Broyles Award (2020), AP Big 12 Coach of the Year (2023), Sammy Baugh Trophy (1996) |
Early Life and Education
Born into a large family in Torrance, California, Steve Sarkisian is the youngest of seven children of Armenian and Irish descent. His early life was defined by sports and determination. Despite being overlooked by major college football programs due to his small stature, he remained undeterred.
He initially enrolled at USC as a baseball player but soon realized his true calling was football. Sarkisian transferred to El Camino College, where his arm strength and accuracy quickly caught attention. His remarkable 72.4% completion rate set a junior college record and earned him All-American honors, paving the way for a scholarship to BYU.
Playing Career at BYU and CFL
At Brigham Young University, Sarkisian flourished under legendary coach LaVell Edwards and offensive coordinator Norm Chow. His 1996 senior season remains one of the most impressive in BYU history. He threw for 4,027 yards and 33 touchdowns, earning All-WAC honors and the Sammy Baugh Trophy as the nation’s best passer.
After college, Sarkisian joined the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he played for three seasons. Although his professional playing career was brief, it laid the groundwork for his eventual transition to coaching — where his football intellect truly shined.
Coaching Career and Rise to Prominence
Early Years and USC Success
Sarkisian began coaching in 2000 at El Camino College before joining USC as a quarterbacks coach under Pete Carroll. His development of elite quarterbacks like Matt Leinart and Carson Palmer helped shape USC’s early 2000s dynasty, earning him national recognition.
After a short NFL stint as quarterbacks coach for the Oakland Raiders, he returned to USC as offensive coordinator and assistant head coach, where he played a crucial role in the Trojans’ championship runs.
Washington Huskies (2009–2013)
In 2009, Sarkisian took over a struggling Washington Huskies program that had gone winless the previous season. Through strong recruiting and motivational leadership, he transformed the team into a competitive Pac-12 contender. His consistency, however, led to the nickname “Seven-Win Steve,” reflecting his string of moderate success seasons.
Return to USC and Controversy
In 2013, he returned to USC as head coach, seeking to restore the Trojans’ dominance. However, his tenure was cut short in 2015 following personal struggles and a publicized battle with alcohol. Sarkisian’s openness about his challenges later became part of his story of redemption — a story that would inspire many.
Redemption at Alabama
Sarkisian’s comeback began under Nick Saban at Alabama, where he first served as an offensive analyst and later as offensive coordinator. His 2020 Alabama offense was one of the most explosive in college football history, leading the Crimson Tide to a national championship and earning him the Broyles Award as the nation’s top assistant coach.
Texas Longhorns (2021–Present)
In January 2021, Steve Sarkisian was appointed head coach of the Texas Longhorns. Despite early struggles, he quickly turned the program around. Under his guidance:
- Texas won the Big 12 Championship (2023).
- The team reached back-to-back College Football Playoffs (2023, 2024).
- He developed star quarterbacks and rebuilt Texas into a national powerhouse.
In 2024, Sarkisian signed a contract extension through 2030, worth over $10.3 million annually, solidifying his position as one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.
Personal Life
Steve Sarkisian’s personal journey is one of perseverance and growth. He was first married to Stephanie Sarkisian, with whom he shares three children. The couple divorced in 2015.
In 2020, Sarkisian married Loreal Smith, a former collegiate track star and coach. Despite filing for divorce in 2024, the couple later reconciled, showing a renewed commitment to their family and shared life in Austin, Texas. They have one son together.
Faith and family remain central to Sarkisian’s values. A devout Catholic, he often credits his faith for helping him navigate both personal and professional challenges.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Steve Sarkisian’s net worth is estimated between $12–15 million. His income primarily stems from his coaching contracts, bonuses, and endorsements. His 2024 contract extension at Texas makes him one of the top-paid college football coaches in the nation.
Sarkisian resides in Austin, Texas, and is known for his humble yet confident demeanor. He often emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and emotional growth — both on and off the field.
Achievements and Awards
- 🏆 Sammy Baugh Trophy (1996) – Nation’s top passer at BYU
- 🏆 Broyles Award (2020) – Top assistant coach at Alabama
- 🏆 AP Big 12 Coach of the Year (2023)
- 🏈 Big 12 Champion (2023) with Texas
- 🏆 Three-time National Champion (as assistant: 2003, 2004, 2020)
Sarkisian’s success story embodies resilience, adaptability, and excellence — qualities that have made him one of college football’s most respected leaders.
Legacy and Future
Steve Sarkisian coaching career represents both transformation and triumph. From personal setbacks to championship victories, he has proven that growth and redemption are possible through perseverance.
As Texas transitions into the SEC, Sarkisian continues to shape the program’s future with elite recruiting, innovative offensive systems, and a renewed focus on culture. His legacy as a player-turned-mentor and tactician ensures his name will remain synonymous with leadership and excellence in American football.
