Sarkisian Slams $40M Texas Roster Rumors, Calls Out 'Irresponsible Reporting'

The Texas Longhorns football program, a powerhouse with deep pockets, is no stranger to big spending rumors. With top-tier facilities and a storied legacy, the University of Texas at Austin has the financial muscle to compete at the highest level. But when whispers of a $40 million roster budget for the 2025 season surfaced, head coach Steve Sarkisian was quick to call foul.

In a fiery rebuttal on SiriusXM's College Sports Radio, Sarkisian dismissed the eye-popping figure as a product of 'irresponsible reporting'. He pegged Texas' actual investment closer to $25 million, a sum that includes revenue-sharing and NIL collective payouts. 'I wish I had $40 million on our roster,' he quipped, 'we’d probably be a little bit better team than we are.'

The reality of modern college football is a financial arms race, fueled by the rise of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. Schools across the country are pouring millions into their programs, with Ohio State reportedly spending $20 million to build their championship-winning roster last season. Sarkisian acknowledged the landscape: 'The idea that other schools aren’t spending to get players? It’s just the state of the game now.'

Texas has been a force in recent years, making back-to-back College Football Playoff appearances. After a heartbreaking 37-31 loss to Washington in the 2023-24 semifinals, the Longhorns battled through a double-overtime thriller against Arizona State last season, only to fall to Ohio State in the semifinals. 'It’s been a great run,' Sarkisian said, before adding with a smirk, 'but another $15 million might’ve helped.'

While the Longhorns’ war chest is formidable, Sarkisian’s comments highlight a broader truth: in today’s college football, cash is king, and every program is playing the game.