Steve Sarkisian Staying at Texas, Reportedly Nearing New Contract amid Alabama Rumors

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian has reaffirmed his commitment to the program amid rumors linking him to the Alabama head coaching job following Nick Saban's retirement.

Sarkisian and the Longhorns are "close" to finalizing a contract extension with a raise to keep him in Texas, according to Chip Brown of 247Sports.

Saban retired as Alabama's head coach earlier this week following a legendary run that included nine SEC titles and six national championships

Sarkisian was rumored as a potential candidate to be Saban's successor as he served as the program's offensive coordinator from 2019-2020 before being hired as head coach of the Longhorns ahead of the 2021 campaign.

The 49-year-old is 25-14 in his three seasons at Texas, leading the Longhorns to back-to-back bowl game appearances in 2022 and 2023. He also led the program to its first College Football Playoff appearance this season.

In addition to Sarkisian, Florida State's Mike Norvell, Washington's Kalen DeBoer, Ole Miss' Lane Kiffin and Oregon's Dan Lanning have been mentioned as potential replacements for Saban.

Lanning has already shut down rumors of a potential move to the SEC powerhouse.

"If you're scared your coach is leaving, then come play for us. The Ducks aren't going anywhere, and I'm not leaving," a caption in a video posted to Lanning's X account stated.

Lanning also said in the video: "I want to be here in Eugene for as long as Eugene will have me."

While Sarkisian and Lanning will remain at their respective programs, Alabama is reportedly focusing on other candidates anyway.

According to Richard Johnson of Sports Illustrated, Alabama is interested in DeBoer, Norvell and current offensive coordinator Tommy Rees to replace Saban.

It's unclear when a replacement will be hired, but with potential candidates being cut down by the day, it seems like a new head coach will be named in the near future.