Austin, TX** – In a stunning announcement that has sent shockwaves of excitement and nostalgia through the college football world, legendary quarterback Vince Young has officially been named an Associate Coach for the University of Texas Longhorns football program.
The decision, confirmed by UT Athletics on Saturday, marks a full-circle moment for one of the most iconic figures in the school’s storied history.
Young, who etched his name into college football lore with his legendary performance in the 2006 Rose Bowl, returns to his alma mater in a leadership capacity that many fans and former teammates believe is long overdue. As Associate Coach, Young is expected to play a pivotal role in mentoring quarterbacks, contributing to game planning, and helping with recruiting efforts—especially in Texas, where his name still carries significant weight among high school athletes and coaches.
Head Coach Steve Sarkisian praised the hire, calling Young’s return a “transformational addition” to the program. “Vince represents everything that is great about Texas Football—grit, leadership, passion, and excellence,” Sarkisian said in a press release. “Having him back on the Forty Acres in this capacity not only strengthens our coaching staff but also deepens our connection to the tradition and pride that defines Longhorn football.”
For Vince Young, the opportunity is both professional and deeply personal. “The University of Texas is home,” Young said during the announcement. “This place shaped me into the man I am today, and it’s an honor to give back to a program and community that has given me so much. I’m ready to help guide the next generation of Longhorns and contribute to bringing championships back to Austin.”
Young’s impact on the program remains unmatched. In his college career, he passed for over 6,000 yards and rushed for more than 3,000, culminating in that unforgettable national championship win over USC. His 2006 Rose Bowl performance—267 passing yards, 200 rushing yards, and three rushing touchdowns—remains one of the greatest individual performances in college football history. In the years since, his legacy has only grown, making this return even more symbolic.
Since retiring from professional football, Young has remained connected to the university in various capacities, including roles in alumni relations and community outreach. However, this marks his first official coaching role with the team, a move that signals the program’s commitment to honoring its past while building toward the future.
The reaction from the Longhorn community has been overwhelmingly positive. Former teammates, coaches, and fans have taken to social media to express their excitement. “Vince Young back on the sidelines? That’s a win for Texas no matter how you look at it,” tweeted former Texas running back Jamaal Charles.
Beyond the hype and sentiment, there are practical reasons why Young’s hire makes sense. His deep understanding of the game, particularly from the quarterback’s perspective, offers valuable insight. Moreover, his experience navigating the pressures of playing at a high level at Texas makes him uniquely equipped to mentor current players in ways that few others can.
As Texas prepares for its first season as a member of the SEC in 2025, the addition of a Longhorn legend to the coaching staff couldn’t come at a better time. With big challenges ahead and even bigger expectations, the presence of Vince Young on the sideline might be just the spark the program needs to rise again to national prominence.
One thing is certain—Vince Young is back where he belongs, and the Longhorn faithful couldn’t
be more thrilled.
