Texas Football Overhauls Defensive Staff, Welcomes Will Muschamp Back to the Forty Acres – Texas football is making a decisive move on the defensive side of the ball as the team attempts to improve on a good but ultimately unsatisfying 9–3 regular-season performance. In a series of statements made Wednesday, Dec. 18, head coach Steve Sarkisian announced significant changes to his defensive coaching staff — changes that show both urgency and ambition as the Longhorns continue their push toward national relevance.
The most noticeable move is the decision to break ways with defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski, who has held the post since Sarkisian arrived in Austin in 2021. In a corresponding and extremely consequential hiring, Texas announced the return of Will Muschamp, one of the most regarded defensive minds in college football and a familiar figure to Longhorn fans. Texas Football Overhauls Defensive Staff
Muschamp previously served as Texas’ defensive coordinator from 2008 to 2010, a time that includes a journey to the BCS National Championship Game during the 2009 season. Since then, he has developed a long résumé in the SEC, including head coaching stints at Florida and South Carolina, and assistant duties at LSU, Auburn, and in the NFL with the Miami Dolphins.
Alongside Kwiatkowski’s resignation, Texas also announced that passing game coordinator and safeties coach Duane Akina will not be retained. The 2024 season represented Akina’s first year back in Austin after returning for a second term with the program. He formerly coached defensive backs at Texas from 2001 to 2013 and had a vital role in some of the most successful defensive units in school history.
Sarkisian Explains the Decision
In a statement provided by the university, Sarkisian expressed gratitude and respect for both outgoing coaches, making it clear that the decision was not rooted in a lack of effort or dedication. “We appreciate all that Pete Kwiatkowski has done for the program in his five years coordinating our defense and are grateful for Duane Akina’s efforts in returning to the program this past year,” Sarkisian added. “They are both tremendous coaches and people that worked extremely hard for Texas Football and the players they coached.”
Sarkisian acknowledged that Texas has experienced considerable defensive success throughout Kwiatkowski’s tenure, but ultimately believed the program needed a fresh voice and direction. “We have had a great deal of success, are thankful for the roles they played in that, and wish them the best,” Sarkisian concluded. “But at this time, we just felt it was best for our program to move in a different direction.”
That new direction came into perspective with the possibility to bring Muschamp back to Austin.
“Having the opportunity to hire Will Muschamp provides us the leadership to take our defense to another level,” Sarkisian said. “Will is a guy I’ve known for a long time, always admired and is as good of a defensive mind and coach as I’ve ever coached against.”
A Proven Defensive Architect Returns
Muschamp’s reputation as a tough, detail-oriented, and uncompromising defensive coach precedes him. Sarkisian highlighted not just his strategy expertise, but his capacity to uplift others around him. “His defenses are relentless; he absolutely gets the best out of his staff and players and is such an extremely well-respected coach,” Sarkisian added. “I know Longhorn Nation knows him well. He led some fantastic defenses here on the Forty, and I’m really amped up to be bringing him back to Texas. He’ll be a fantastic addition to our staff.”
For Texas supporters, Muschamp’s return represents both familiarity and credibility. During his previous career, the Longhorns featured arguably of the most physical and disciplined defenses in the country, culminating in a national championship appearance in 2010, where Texas ultimately succumbed to Alabama. Now 54, Muschamp most recently served as a defensive analyst at Georgia during the 2024 season after moving away from full-time coaching. His return signifies renewed energy and belief in what Sarkisian is accomplishing in Austin.
Defensive Numbers Tell Only Part of the Story
Statistically, Texas’ defense was one of the better teams in NCAA football this season. The Longhorns rated No. 23 nationally in scoring defense, allowing just 19.75 points per game, and No. 36 in total defense at 335.7 yards per game.
Those metrics reflect stability rather than difficulty, which makes the change all the more significant. But for a program with championship aspirations, incremental growth is no longer enough. Sarkisian’s choice reflects a view that Texas must be excellent — not merely competent — on defense to compete consistently at the top level, particularly as the school prepares for the rigors of SEC play. Texas Football Overhauls Defensive Staff
Muschamp Embraces the Opportunity
Muschamp showed joy and thankfulness in his initial words following the announcement, making it apparent that Austin still feels like home. “This is an exciting day for the Muschamp family,” he remarked. “We loved our time in Austin and truly enjoyed everything about working with Texas Football. We’re happy to be returning back to a program with one of the richest and proudest histories and traditions in college football.”
He also credited Sarkisian’s leadership as a crucial role in his choice to return. “With what Coach Sark has done in rebuilding this program – knowing there are even better days ahead – I was fired up for the opportunity,” Muschamp said. “I have tremendous respect and admiration for Sark, how he leads his program, develops his team and players, builds culture and goes about his business.” Texas Football Overhauls Defensive Staff
Looking Ahead
Muschamp’s arrival brings a lot of experience, intensity, and legitimacy to a Texas team that is plainly set on shrinking the gap between contention and titles. His expertise as both a coordinator and head coach provides him a unique perspective, and his knowledge with the program should allow for a smooth transfer.
“I’m excited to be a part of it and can’t wait to get started,” Muschamp said. “Hook ’em!” As Texas turns the page on its defensive leadership, the message from Sarkisian is unmistakable: the Longhorns are not standing pat. With Muschamp back on the Forty Acres, Texas is wagering that a proven defensive architect can help elevate the program from success to sustainable brilliance. Texas Football Overhauls Defensive Staff
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