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**Historic College Football Program Set to Pay Coach $10.8 Million and Allow Private Jet Use**

In a significant development that underscores the escalating financial dynamics of college football, the University of Texas has announced a substantial contract extension for head coach Steve Sarkisian. The new agreement not only elevates his annual salary to $10.8 million but also grants him access to a private jet for personal use, highlighting the increasing commercialization and professionalization of collegiate athletics.

**Steve Sarkisian’s Contract Extension**

Steve Sarkisian, who took the helm of the Texas Longhorns football program in 2021, has been instrumental in revitalizing the team’s performance. Under his leadership, the Longhorns secured a Big 12 Championship and made their inaugural appearance in the College Football Playoff in 2023. Recognizing his contributions, the University of Texas has approved a contract extension that significantly enhances his compensation package.

Effective immediately, Sarkisian’s annual salary has been increased from $5.8 million to $10.8 million. This adjustment positions him among the highest-paid coaches in college football, reflecting the university’s commitment to retaining top-tier coaching talent. The contract extension also includes performance-based incentives, with Sarkisian eligible to earn up to $1.85 million annually through various bonuses. These incentives are tied to achievements such as conference championships, playoff appearances, and national titles. citeturn0search3

**Perks and Privileges**

Beyond the substantial salary increase, Sarkisian’s new contract offers several perks that underscore the evolving nature of college football coaching positions. Notably, the agreement provides Sarkisian with access to a private jet for personal use, a benefit that aligns with the practices of professional sports organizations. This perk facilitates efficient travel for recruiting, personal commitments, and other professional obligations, reflecting the high demands placed on top-tier college football coaches. citeturn0search3

**Comparative Landscape**

Sarkisian’s enhanced compensation package places him in the upper echelons of college football coaching salaries. For context, Alabama’s Nick Saban leads the list with an annual salary of $11.4 million, followed by Clemson’s Dabo Swinney at $10.9 million, and Georgia’s Kirby Smart at $10.7 million. Sarkisian’s new salary of $10.8 million positions him competitively within this group, reflecting the financial investments universities are making to secure and retain elite coaching talent. citeturn0search1

**Implications for College Football**

The substantial increase in Sarkisian’s salary and the inclusion of private jet access are indicative of a broader trend in college football toward professionalization. As universities invest heavily in their football programs, the financial packages offered to coaches have become more lucrative, often mirroring those found in professional sports. This shift has sparked discussions about the balance between academic missions and athletic expenditures, as well as the impact on student-athletes and the overall collegiate experience.

**Conclusion**

The University of Texas’s decision to extend Steve Sarkisian’s contract with a significant salary increase and additional perks, including private jet access, underscores the escalating financial dynamics within college football. As the sport continues to evolve, such developments highlight the growing commercialization and professionalization of collegiate athletics, setting new standards for coaching compensation and benefits.