At a Glance
> At a Glance
> – Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian discusses NIL money’s impact on the transfer portal ahead of the Citrus Bowl.
> – The Longhorns face multiple player losses, making transfer strategy critical.
> – Agents, from seasoned pros to college roommates, call the shots.
> – Why it matters: The new money rules could reshape how Texas fills roster gaps and competes.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian spoke with reporters Tuesday at a press conference ahead of the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, which starts at 2 p.m. CT Wednesday. He said the transfer portal’s role is shifting as NIL money becomes a factor.
The Transfer Portal and NIL Money
Sarkisian explained that the reality of college football now includes talking about money and players. He said the situation is “pretty crazy” but needs tightening. He joked he will likely be on the phone with an agent today who will throw a number at him.
Steve Sarkisian stated:
> “The idea that I can sit up in 2025 and talk about money and players is pretty crazy, right? That’s the reality of the situation of college football right now, and there’s nothing wrong with that. We just need to tighten it up. I’ll probably be on the phone with an agent today who’s going to throw a number at me, and I’ll be like, ‘Good luck, I hope you get it. If you don’t, call us back, but I can’t do that number.'”
He noted that agents range from experienced veterans to college roommates, and there is no certification process like the NFL’s. He hopes regulation will change as NIL rules evolve.
Steve Sarkisian added:
> “There are some agents who are rational, and there are some that it’s their first time being an agent. In college football, it might be their college roommate in their freshman year who is their agent, and this guy is throwing numbers at you, and you just can’t even deal with it, and you move on.”
Strategy for Filling Roster Gaps
Sarkisian said the approach to transfers remains focused on evaluating specific needs and players who can provide a stopgap while developing young talent. He cited backup quarterback Matthew Caldwell, who played at three programs, as an example of a transfer who stepped in when needed.
He also explained how he balances high-school recruits with portal targets.
Steve Sarkisian remarked:
> “There are so many factors. What are your needs? What are your luxuries? Those are two different things. And then trying to find the right mix and fit, because we can’t lose sight of some of the kids we signed out of high school.”
Key recruits mentioned include:
- Derrick Cooper – 4-star, No. 6 running back in the country
- Christian Clark – running back
- James Simon – running back
Key Takeaways
- NIL money is now a major factor in transfer decisions.
- Sarkisian’s strategy balances immediate needs with long-term development.
- The Longhorns are actively recruiting high-school talent while navigating the portal.
The Longhorns’ upcoming game against Michigan will test how well the new transfer strategy works under the pressure of NIL money and roster gaps.
