Jeff Banks Turns Down $34 Million Offer from Oklahoma, Reaffirms Commitment to Texas Longhorns

**Jeff Banks Turns Down \$34 Million Offer from Oklahoma, Reaffirms Commitment to Texas Longhorns**

 

In a stunning turn of events in the world of college football, Texas Longhorns tight ends coach and special teams coordinator Jeff Banks has reportedly turned down a jaw-dropping \$34 million offer from archrival Oklahoma Sooners. The high-profile offer, which would have made Banks one of the highest-paid assistant coaches in college football history, was designed to lure him away from Austin and into Norman in a bold attempt to strengthen Oklahoma’s coaching staff ahead of their move to the SEC.

 

Instead, Banks chose loyalty, continuity, and the championship vision he believes is taking shape under head coach Steve Sarkisian at Texas.

“Texas is where I want to be,” Banks said in a statement released Thursday. “We’re building something special here, and I’m committed to seeing it through. The relationships with our players, the staff, and the direction we’re heading—it all means more to me than any number on a paycheck.”

 

The offer from Oklahoma reportedly included a multi-year deal with head-coach-in-waiting implications, lucrative performance bonuses, and full control over the Sooners’ special teams and offensive personnel management. But Banks, one of the most respected special teams minds in the country and a pivotal recruiter for Texas, declined.

This decision comes at a critical time, with the Longhorns riding the momentum of a strong 2024 season and preparing for their first year in the SEC. Banks has played a crucial role in Texas’s recent recruiting successes and special teams resurgence, turning the Longhorns into one of the nation’s top-performing units in that phase of the game.

 

Athletic Director Chris Del Conte praised Banks’ decision: “Jeff is a cornerstone of this program. His commitment, vision, and belief in what we’re building here show exactly why he’s one of the best in the business.”

 

The news is also a significant win for the Longhorns’ stability heading into a new era. As coaching turnover becomes increasingly common in college football, Banks’ decision to stay is seen as a message of belief in Texas’ potential to contend at the highest level.

 

For now, the Longhorns faithful can breathe a sigh of relief. Jeff Banks isn’t going anywhere. In fact, he might just be more committed than ever.