RETURN TO AUSTIN: Former Texas Head Coach Charlie Strong Back With Longhorns in New Role—Fans React to Surprise Reunion
In a surprising yet sentimental twist, former Texas Longhorns head coach Charlie Strong is officially returning to the Forty Acres—but not as the head coach this time. The University of Texas announced today that Strong has accepted a new role within the football program, marking his first return to Austin since his tenure as head coach ended in 2016.
Strong, who served as the Longhorns’ head coach from 2014 to 2016, will now join the team in an off-field capacity as a senior defensive analyst. According to sources close to the program, the move was initiated by head coach Steve Sarkisian, who reportedly sees Strong’s experience, defensive acumen, and familiarity with the Texas culture as major assets for a team eyeing a serious push in the SEC.
A Full-Circle Moment
Strong’s return represents a full-circle moment for both the coach and the university. While his time as head coach was marked by high expectations and mixed results, there’s no denying that Strong left a lasting impact—particularly in the lives of the players he coached.
During his three-year tenure, Strong finished with a 16-21 record. Though the on-field results didn’t meet fan and administration expectations, Strong was widely praised for his efforts to instill discipline, accountability, and academic focus within the program. Many former players, including several now in the NFL, have credited Strong with helping them grow both as athletes and as men.
Strong’s return comes at a time when the Longhorns are undergoing a pivotal transition. With Texas officially joining the SEC in 2024, the stakes have never been higher. The move reunites Strong with the level of competition he experienced during his successful stint as defensive coordinator at Florida, where he helped build national championship-caliber defenses under Urban Meyer.
Sarkisian Speaks on the Move
In a brief statement released by the Texas athletic department, head coach Steve Sarkisian welcomed Strong back into the fold:
> “Charlie brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of what it means to wear the Burnt Orange. His leadership, defensive insight, and passion for the game will be invaluable to our staff and players. We’re excited to have him back in Austin.”
Sources indicate that Strong will be heavily involved in film breakdown, opponent scouting, and defensive strategy. While he won’t be on the sidelines or directly coaching players on the field due to NCAA rules limiting analyst roles, his presence in the building will certainly be felt.
Reaction From the Longhorns Community
The news of Strong’s return has been met with widespread praise on social media. Several former Texas players, including linebacker Malik Jefferson and cornerback Kris Boyd, took to Twitter to voice their support and excitement.
> “Coach Strong back in the building?! Love to see it. One of the realest to ever do it,” Jefferson tweeted.
Fans, too, expressed a mix of surprise and excitement. While some initially questioned the decision to bring back a former head coach who struggled with wins and losses, many have embraced the move as a smart, culture-driven decision.
Longhorns fan forums and message boards were abuzz throughout the day, with posts ranging from heartfelt tributes to Strong’s mentorship to speculation about how his presence might boost Texas’ already formidable defense.
A Coach’s Journey
Since leaving Texas in 2016, Strong’s coaching journey has taken him to multiple stops. He was head coach at South Florida from 2017 to 2019, leading the Bulls to a 10-win season in his first year. Following that, he served as a defensive analyst at Alabama under Nick Saban in 2020 before moving to Jacksonville as part of Urban Meyer’s NFL staff. Most recently, Strong was the co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at Miami.
Though he’s held several high-profile roles, Strong has always maintained that Texas was a unique chapter in his career.
> “There’s something special about the University of Texas,” Strong said in an interview last year. “It didn’t go the way I hoped, but I’m proud of the relationships I built there and the young men I had the chance to coach.”
What This Means for Texas
Bringing Strong into the fold is widely seen as a savvy move by Sarkisian, especially with Texas seeking to establish itself as a defensive force in the SEC. Last season, the Longhorns made significant strides on that side of the ball, and adding a seasoned voice like Strong’s only reinforces that commitment.
More importantly, Strong’s hire is another example of Sarkisian’s willingness to put ego aside and build a winning team around him—regardless of past affiliations or history.
It’s also worth noting that Strong’s deep recruiting ties in Florida and Texas could be quietly leveraged behind the scenes, particularly in scouting and talent evaluation.
Final Thoughts
Charlie Strong’s return to Austin is more than just a headline—it’s a redemption arc, a bridge between past and present, and a sign of how the college football landscape is evolving. Programs are increasingly valuing leadership, experience, and institutional knowledge over simply chasing shiny new hires.
While his role this time may not be front and center, Strong’s impact could prove to be just as significant behind the scenes.
As the Longhorns gear up for a crucial SEC campaign, one thing is clear: the return of Charlie Strong is not just a nostalgic nod to the past—it’s a strategic move for the future.
Welcome back, Coach. Texas is glad to have you home.
