In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, the University of Texas has officially suspended head football coach Steve Sarkisian pending the outcome of an internal investigation. The announcement came early Friday morning through a statement released by the university’s athletic department, citing “serious concerns regarding conduct inconsistent with the university’s values and expectations.”
The nature of the allegations remains undisclosed at this time, but sources close to the program suggest the investigation may be linked to a series of internal complaints involving staff treatment, potential NCAA compliance issues, and concerns over player well-being. While the university has not confirmed specific details, it has emphasized that the suspension is not an assumption of guilt, but rather a standard procedure during the inquiry process.
“We take these matters extremely seriously,” the statement from the university read. “Coach Sarkisian has been placed on temporary administrative leave as we conduct a thorough and fair investigation. Our priority remains the integrity of our athletic program and the well-being of our student-athletes.”
Sarkisian, who took over the Longhorns in 2021, was entering his fifth season with high expectations after leading Texas to a College Football Playoff appearance in the previous season. His leadership has been credited with revitalizing the program and restoring national relevance to the Longhorns, but this sudden development has cast uncertainty over the team’s future just months before the 2025 season is set to begin.
As of now, offensive coordinator Kyle Flood is expected to serve as interim head coach. Flood has been with the program since Sarkisian’s arrival and is considered a steady hand during this turbulent time.
Reactions across the college football landscape have been swift and divided. Some fans expressed shock and disappointment, while others voiced concern over transparency within the program. Social media platforms were flooded with speculation, though many urged patience and due process.
One anonymous source within the athletic department told local media, “It’s a tough day for everyone, but the leadership here is committed to getting to the bottom of this. It’s about protecting the values of Texas Football — not just wins and losses.”
Sarkisian has not yet issued a public statement, but his attorney confirmed he is fully cooperating with the university’s investigation and expects to be “completely vindicated.”
This isn’t the first time Sarkisian has faced challenges in his coaching career. Before joining Texas, he was fired from USC amid personal struggles, but his tenure at Texas had largely been seen as a comeback story. His suspension now places both his legacy and the momentum of the Longhorns’ resurgence in jeopardy.
More information is expected to be released as the investigation unfolds. For now, the Longhorns program — and college football at large — is left with more questions than answers.
This is a developing story. St
ay tuned for updates.
