In a move that has sent shockwaves across college football, the Texas Longhorns have officially announced the return of former head coach Tom Herman, who will take the reins following the sudden and unexpected departure of Steve Sarkisian. The development, first reported by ESPN, marks a dramatic twist in the Longhorns’ football journey, as the program looks to regain stability and build momentum heading into a critical new era.
While details surrounding Sarkisian’s exit remain limited, early reports suggest that the decision was not performance-related but stemmed from unforeseen personal circumstances, leading to his abrupt resignation. Sarkisian had been at the helm since 2021 and had recently led the Longhorns to a strong finish, including a College Football Playoff appearance. His departure, therefore, caught many within the program — and the broader college football community — completely off guard.
Enter Tom Herman, the familiar face now tasked with steering Texas forward once again.
Herman, who previously served as head coach of the Longhorns from 2017 to 2020, returns with unfinished business and a renewed opportunity to make his mark. During his first tenure, Herman compiled a 32-18 record and guided Texas to multiple bowl victories, including a Sugar Bowl win over Georgia in 2019. His leadership helped stabilize the program following a turbulent period, though inconsistency and high expectations ultimately led to his dismissal.
Now, just a few years later, Herman comes back to Austin with experience, perspective, and — perhaps most importantly — the benefit of hindsight. During his time away, he remained active in football, including a stint with the Chicago Bears and later serving as head coach at Florida Atlantic. That experience, coupled with his deep understanding of the Texas culture and recruiting landscape, made him an appealing choice in what ESPN is calling a “historically swift coaching pivot.”
The Longhorns’ athletic department wasted no time in making the announcement. In a statement released early this morning, Athletic Director Chris Del Conte praised Herman’s familiarity with the program and emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity amid an offseason filled with uncertainty.
“Tom Herman knows what it means to be a Longhorn. He’s won here, he’s built relationships here, and he understands the expectations. This transition comes under extraordinary circumstances, but we are confident that Tom is the right leader to guide this team forward.”
Fans have responded with a mix of surprise and cautious optimism. While Herman’s previous tenure had its share of critics, his recruiting success and bowl performances left a foundation that some believe wasn’t fully realized before his departure. With the college football landscape evolving rapidly — particularly with NIL and the transfer portal — Herman’s experience and recruiting chops could prove critical in maintaining momentum and roster stability.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Texas has entered yet another dramatic chapter in its storied football history. Whether Herman can pick up where he left off — or take the program to new heights — remains to be seen. But for now, the spotlight is back on Austin, and all eyes are on Tom Herman’s second act with the Longhorns.