LONGHORNS LOYALTY: Jeff Banks Turns Down Ohio State’s Jaw-Dropping $2 Million Offer, Stays in Austin
AUSTIN, TX – July 7, 2025 – In a move that reverberated through the coaching ranks and sent a clear message about the surging momentum in Austin, Texas Longhorns Assistant Head Coach, Special Teams Coordinator, and Tight Ends Coach Jeff Banks has reportedly turned down an astonishing $2 million offer from the Ohio State Buckeyes. The tantalizing proposal would have seen Banks nearly double his current salary, but sources close to the coach confirm his unwavering commitment to the Longhorn program and Head Coach Steve Sarkisian.
The news, which began to circulate quietly before being corroborated by multiple industry insiders, confirms Ohio State’s aggressive pursuit of one of college football’s most respected special teams minds. The Buckeyes, under Head Coach Ryan Day, have been seeking to bolster their special teams unit, and Banks, with his proven track record of excellence at multiple elite programs, was clearly their top target. His current salary at Texas is reported to be $1.2 million for the 2025 season, making Ohio State’s purported offer a significant financial upgrade.
“It’s a testament to what we’re building here at Texas that a coach of Jeff’s caliber, with options from premier programs, chooses to stay,” a source within the Texas athletic department, who wished to remain anonymous, told reporters. “He’s an integral part of Coach Sarkisian’s vision, and his commitment speaks volumes about the direction of this program.”
Banks’ decision to remain in Austin is a major victory for the Longhorns, especially as they navigate the fiercely competitive landscape of the SEC. Widely regarded as one of the best special teams coordinators in the nation, Banks has consistently fielded top-tier units throughout his career. His tenure at Texas has been no exception, with the Longhorns’ special teams consistently ranking among the best in the Big 12 and now, as they transition to the SEC, demonstrating their prowess on a national stage.
Under Banks’ guidance, Texas special teams units have been characterized by their disciplined play, explosive returns, and clutch performances. His ability to develop talent across various special teams roles – from punters and kickers to return specialists and coverage teams – has made him a highly sought-after commodity in the coaching market. His added responsibility as Assistant Head Coach and Tight Ends Coach further underscores his value to the Longhorns’ overall success.
Ohio State’s pursuit of Banks highlights their perceived need for a boost in special teams. While a powerhouse program, the Buckeyes have at times faced criticism regarding their special teams play. A $2 million salary for a special teams coordinator would have set a new benchmark in college football, demonstrating the seriousness of Ohio State’s intent to lure Banks away from the Longhorns. Ohio State’s current Special Teams Coordinator, Parker Fleming, reportedly earns $500,000, illustrating the scale of the offer made to Banks.
For Banks, the decision was clearly about more than just money. His long-standing relationship with Steve Sarkisian, dating back to their shared time at Alabama where Banks also coached special teams and tight ends, appears to be a significant factor. Banks was a crucial hire for Sarkisian when he took over the Texas program in 2021, signaling a commitment to special teams excellence from day one.
“When you have established relationships and you believe in the vision, that holds a lot of weight,” a source familiar with Banks’ thinking stated. “He’s invested in these players, in this staff, and in the journey Texas is on. The loyalty goes both ways.”
The news comes at a critical time for the Longhorns, who are riding high after a successful 2024 season and entering the SEC as a legitimate national championship contender. Retaining key coaching staff members like Banks is paramount to maintaining continuity and building upon recent successes. His expertise will be vital as Texas faces the increased level of competition in their new conference.
While Ohio State will now likely turn its attention to other candidates to lead its special teams unit, the takeaway for the rest of college football is clear: Texas is a destination program for top coaching talent. The loyalty shown by Jeff Banks in the face of such a lucrative offer speaks volumes about the culture Steve Sarkisian is building in Austin. For the Longhorn faithful, it’s another reason to believe that the future is indeed bright for the Burnt Orange and White.
