Charlie Strong: Latest News, Rumors Surrounding Texas Coach's Future

Alec NathanNov 18, 2015

Rumors have swirled regarding the future of Texas head football coach Charlie Strong, but a new report indicates the Longhorns boss isn't in danger of being sent packing.

Continue for updates.

Fenves Comments on Strong's Future at Texas

Friday, Dec. 11

"I fully support Charlie Strong," Texas President Greg Fenves tweeted, "I am committed to helping him move Longhorn Football forward."

Strong Comments on Future at Texas

Monday, Nov. 23

“I don't run from anything,” Strong said, per Jeff Howe of Horns247. “When you work so hard to put yourself in this position nothing's ever too tough.”

“I’ve told my players I’m not going anywhere,” Strong added. “I’m here for the duration and I’m here to stay.”

Strong's denial is not the first he's had to make this season.

"It's all a rumor," Strong said on Nov. 18 when asked about speculation he could fill the University of Miami's head coaching vacancy, per Max Olson of ESPN.com. "We're here to build a program. That's why I came here."

Strong Reportedly Wants to Stay at Texas

Saturday, Nov. 21

"After weeks of speculation, sources close to the situation have told me Charlie Strong is no longer in the mix at Miami and intends to remain at Texas," reported Anwar Richardson of OrangeBloods.com, who continued:

"
Strong's name has been linked to Miami before coach Al Golden was fired in October. As previously reported on Orangebloods, Miami was interested in Strong because of his south Florida ties, previous lack of support by former Texas athletic director Steve Patterson, and the coach has a great reputation nationally. The addition of Strong could have given Miami a much-needed shot of energy.

However, I was told by multiple sources close to Strong that he is committed to Texas and has no interest in coaching at Miami. Strong has not spoken to anyone associated with Miami's program, nor received a contract offer. Even if Miami did offer him a contract, Strong will remain committed to Texas, according to sources.

From what I was told, Strong wants to finish what he started after being officially hired on January 6, 2014. Even though Texas is not having the success he envisioned, Strong does not want to walk away after two seasons and be viewed as a quitter, according to those who are close to the coach. Strong is not driven by money, but he does not appear ready to walk away from $15 million at Texas ($5 million a year at 2016, 2017 and 2018).
"

On Nov. 17, Richardson reported Strong has not been in contact with Miami.

Strong Won't Be Fired if Texas Loses Final 2 Games

Wednesday, Nov. 18

Citing two sources, Chip Brown of HornsDigest.com reported, "UT president Greg Fenves and interim athletic director Mike Perrin are unequivocal in their support of Charlie Strong coming back in 2016."

Brown added Strong's job security within the university hierarchy is linked to feelings that the head coach "didn't receive the support he needed during his first 20 months at Texas."

How Strong's Presence Impacts Texas

Texas started the season 1-4, but a 24-17 win over Oklahoma in October's Red River Rivalry offered hope the Longhorns were turning a corner. And while the Longhorns have won two contests since over Kansas State and Kansas, they've faltered in winnable Big 12 showdowns against Iowa State and West Virginia.

After posting a 6-7 record during Strong's first season in Austin, it's understandable for the Longhorns faithful to be growing restless. However, the university's patience during trying times is admirable, especially since Strong was tasked with rebuilding the program following Mack Brown's departure.

On the flip side, Strong appears to be reciprocating commitment to Texas.