Steve Sarkisian Current Wife is a prominent figure in American football, widely recognised for his career as a player turned elite-level coach. Currently the head football coach at the University of Texas, Sarkisian has made headlines not only for his coaching abilities and on-field strategies but also for his personal life, particularly regarding his marriages, family, and career journey. From rising through the ranks in college football to facing personal challenges and making a strong comeback, Sarkisian’s story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation.
Steve Sarkisian Current Wife Quick Bio
Field | Details |
Full Name | Stephen Ambrose Sarkisian |
Date of Birth | March 8, 1974 |
Age (as of 2025) | 51 years old |
Birthplace | Torrance, California, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Armenian and Irish descent |
Current Position | Head Football Coach, University of Texas |
Playing Position | Quarterback (Former Player) |
Marital Status | Married |
Current Wife | Loreal Smith Sarkisian (married in 2020) |
First Wife | Stephanie Sarkisian (divorced in 2015) |
Children | 3 (with first wife) |
Net Worth (2025 estimate) | $15 million – $20 million |
Known For | NCAA Football Coaching, Comeback Career |
Early Life and Background
Steve Sarkisian was born on March 8, 1974, in Torrance, California, into a working-class family. He is the youngest of seven children and was raised in a household rooted in Armenian and Irish-American heritage. Growing up in a sports-loving community in Southern California, Sarkisian showed early promise in athletics, particularly football and baseball.
He attended West High School in Torrance, where he began to develop his football skills. However, he didn’t immediately shine as a high school star, which led him to take a less conventional path toward college athletics.
Sarkisian’s journey reflects perseverance. After attending El Camino College, a junior college, he eventually transferred to Brigham Young University (BYU), where he made a significant impact as a quarterback under coach LaVell Edwards.
Education
Steve Sarkisian earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from BYU in 1997. His academic background, while often overshadowed by his sports career, has contributed to his strong communication skills, team-building philosophies, and understanding of group dynamics — essential traits for any successful coach.
While at BYU:
- He passed for over 7,000 yards and 55 touchdowns over two seasons.
- He won the Sammy Baugh Trophy as the nation’s top passer in 1996.
- He led the Cougars to a 14–1 season, ending with a Cotton Bowl victory.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Steve Sarkisian is 51 years old. He maintains a professional and athletic appearance suitable for his high-energy role as a college football coach.
Physical Attributes:
- Height: 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 215 pounds (97 kg)
- Hair Color: Dark Brown
- Eye Color: Brown
- Build: Athletic and fit
- Style: Often seen in team gear, polos, caps, or game-day suits
Despite the high pressure of college football coaching, Sarkisian has maintained his health and public image through consistent focus on well-being.
His Father
Steve Sarkisian’s father, Sebouh Sarkisian, is of Armenian descent. While not as publicly visible as his son, Sebouh was a key influence in Steve’s early life, teaching him the value of hard work, humility, and family dedication. Steve has often spoken about how his ethnic heritage and father’s perseverance shaped his own character and resilience.
His Mother
Though less publicly discussed, Steve’s mother, Sally Sarkisian, played a foundational role in his upbringing. She provided the emotional and familial support needed to keep a large household united. In various interviews, Steve has credited both his parents with helping him stay grounded through both his personal and professional challenges.
Children
Steve Sarkisian has three children — two daughters and one son — from his first marriage to Stephanie Sarkisian. Their names are not widely publicized for privacy reasons, but it’s known that he maintains a close relationship with them despite his demanding career.
Sarkisian has emphasized the importance of co-parenting and staying connected with his children. He often mentions them in interviews as key motivators in both his professional success and personal growth.
First Wife – Stephanie Sarkisian
Steve Sarkisian married Stephanie Sarkisian in the late 1990s, and the couple remained married for approximately 18 years before divorcing in 2015. Stephanie was a high school teacher, and they lived a relatively private life during their marriage, especially while Steve’s career moved through the ranks of college and professional football.
Their separation was amicable and largely private. At the time, Steve was facing personal challenges, including his highly publicized struggles with alcohol and his exit from the head coaching position at USC. He later credited that period of his life as a wake-up call and part of his path to personal redemption and transformation.
Current Wife – Loreal Smith Sarkisian
In 2020, Steve Sarkisian married Loreal Smith, a former collegiate athlete and successful fashion stylist. Loreal is not just a coach’s wife — she is known for her own impressive career in sports and fashion.
About Loreal Smith:
- Former track and field athlete at North Carolina A&T State University
- Previously worked as a track and field coach at various universities
- Fashion and wardrobe consultant; operates her own fashion brand
- Known for her sideline style, often going viral for her fashion choices during game days
- Strong advocate for women in sports and diversity in athletics
Their marriage has been described as supportive, energetic, and well-balanced, with Loreal often appearing at games and supporting Steve in his coaching career. The couple has brought a modern, dynamic image to Texas Longhorns football, blending tradition with new-age charisma.
Who Is Steve Sarkisian?
Steve Sarkisian is a highly respected American football coach and former quarterback, currently serving as the head coach of the University of Texas Longhorns. His coaching resume includes stints with some of the most prestigious programs in college football and the NFL.
Career Highlights:
- Head Coach, University of Texas (2021–present)
- Offensive Coordinator, Alabama Crimson Tide (2019–2020)
- Head Coach, University of Washington (2009–2013)
- Head Coach, USC Trojans (2014–2015)
- Offensive Coordinator, Atlanta Falcons (NFL, 2017–2018)
- National Championship wins as part of Nick Saban’s staff at Alabama
Sarkisian is particularly known for:
- Developing elite quarterbacks
- Designing high-powered offensive strategies
- Recruiting top-tier talent
- His comeback story after personal setbacks
His leadership at Texas is seen as a pivotal chapter, and fans, alumni, and critics are watching closely to see if he can restore the Longhorns to national prominence.
Net Worth
Steve Sarkisian Net Worth in 2025: Estimated $15 million – $20 million
Sarkisian’s wealth has come from:
- Multi-million dollar coaching contracts
- Performance bonuses tied to bowl game appearances and rankings
- Endorsements, media engagements, and paid speaking events
- Book deals and future potential media collaborations
Breakdown of Earnings:
Source | Estimated Annual Value |
University of Texas Salary | $5.2 million – $6 million |
Performance Bonuses | $500,000 – $1 million+ |
Endorsements & Public Work | $250,000+ |
Investments/Assets | Real estate, savings, and private ventures |
Sarkisian signed a six-year deal with Texas worth over $34 million, not including incentives and bonuses. His financial comeback mirrors his personal and professional resurgence.
Current Life
As of 2025, Steve Sarkisian is fully focused on leading the Texas Longhorns. His coaching philosophy blends experience, innovation, and compassion — a result of lessons learned from both triumph and adversity.
Current Highlights:
- Recruiting future NFL talents
- Building a coaching staff known for excellence and discipline
- Active in charitable causes, including youth sports and addiction recovery
- Balancing a high-profile career with family life alongside Loreal Smith Sarkisian
He frequently speaks at leadership events, athletic conferences, and is considered one of the most inspirational comeback stories in recent sports history.
Conclusion
Steve Sarkisian is more than just a football coach — he is a symbol of redemption, resilience, and reinvention. From being a promising young quarterback to becoming a sought-after strategist and leader, his journey includes personal challenges, professional comebacks, and personal happiness.
His current marriage to Loreal Smith Sarkisian, combined with his past experiences with his first wife Stephanie, reflects the dynamic nature of his life story. At age 51, with a net worth between $15–$20 million, he stands as a role model for personal growth, leadership, and second chances.
FAQ
Q1: How old is Steve Sarkisian in 2025?
A: He is 51 years old, born on March 8, 1974.
Q2: Who is Steve Sarkisian’s current wife?
A: His current wife is Loreal Smith Sarkisian, married in 2020.
Q3: Who was Steve Sarkisian’s first wife?
A: His first wife was Stephanie Sarkisian. They divorced in 2015.
Q4: Does Steve Sarkisian have children?
A: Yes, he has three children from his first marriage.
Q5: What is Steve Sarkisian’s net worth?
A: His net worth is estimated between $15 million and $20 million.
Q6: What is Steve Sarkisian’s current job?
A: He is the head football coach at the University of Texas.
Q7: What challenges has he overcome?
A: Sarkisian has overcome personal struggles with alcohol, professional setbacks, and has rebuilt his career through determination and growth.
Q8: Where can I follow him?
A: Steve Sarkisian is active via the University of Texas media, public speaking events, and coverage during NCAA football seasons.