Steve Sarkisian explains why rev-share spent on true freshmen offensive linemen is ‘dead money’

“But to say that he’s going to come in and start at left tackle as a true freshman, I mean, he’s got to protect that quarterback and he’s got to block for that running back, (and) in this conference, that’s probably not realistic,” Sarkisian continued. “So, the more money you invest in those young linemen, that’s really dead money, because that’s a development position. And what’s happening is, those players aren’t getting developed, they’re just getting thrown to the wolves because they’re making money. … And, in college football, some of these pass rushers have been there for 6-7 years, they’re 24-25 years old.”

It’s a stark reality for young offensive lineman, especially if they’re looking to break the bank out of high school. Sarkisian’s stance might also explain why Texas only signed a single offensive tackle apart of its 2026 prep recruiting class — three-star local product Kaden Scherer. Meanwhile, the ‘Horns inked deals with two transfers at the position in four-star Wake Forest tackle Melvin Siani, the No. 3 tackle in the 2026 portal class, and three-star Texas A&M tackle Jonte Newman.

“Remember us as young players, we might have had the physical ability early, but we didn’t have the mental discipline to play 70 snaps of doing right every play,” Sarkisian continued. “… For young players, that’s the difference. (The young tackle) is going to make a mistake. … Think about Indiana, they had a hell of a year. Curt Cignetti did an amazing job, (but) he was starting six six-year seniors.”

Indiana’s success might help explain why Sarkisian shifted gears with its approach to the portal this offseason. Texas landed On3’s No. 10 portal class of 2026 thanks in large part to additions like five-star wideout Cam Coleman (Auburn), the No. 1 transfer WR, four-star linebacker Rasheem Biles (Pitt), and four-star running backs Hollywood Smoothers (NC State) and Raleek Brown (Arizona State), the No. 2 and 4 transfer RBs in the class.

Given the Longhorns’ narrowing window with Manning, it’s no wonder Sarkisian opted to spend Texas’ money on experienced transfers over unproven freshmen, especially along the offensive line.