Longhorns' Steve Sarkisian Shuts Down Potential Return of Transfers: 'We're Not Playing That Game!'

Texas Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian recently made a viral podcast appearance, making it clear how he feels about players hopping in and out of the transfer portal. And on Wednesday, three Longhorns just so happened to announce their intent to transfer.

© Kirby Lee, USA TODAY

AUSTIN, Texas -- Steve Sarkisian's timing is impeccable.

The Texas Longhorns coach appeared on Tuesday's episode of The Pivot Podcast hosted by former NFL player Ryan Clark and touched on multiple topics. From his journey to Texas, his struggles with alcohol at USC, and just football in general, the interview brought Sarkisian into an endearing light that many fans don't always get a chance to see.

But considering the fact that three Longhorns - receiver Brenan Thompson, linebacker Trevell Johnson, and EDGE Derrick Brown - announced the intent to enter the transfer portal on Wednesday, perhaps Sark's best gem from the interview was his take on the concept of players hopping in and out of the portal.

Without naming names, he made it clear how he and the coaching staff feel about this in general.

"The moment you go in the transfer portal at the University of Texas, you're no longer coming back," Sarkisian said. "Kids go and test the waters and try to come back, we're not playing that game. If you want to go in the portal, go in the portal, and good luck to you."

Based on these comments, this means that Thompson, Johnson, and Brown will not be returning to the program if they don't like their potential transfer options.

Sarkisian likely meant no disrespect to these three directly, especially since the episode was released a day before the transfer news broke. 

But it's possible that Sark knew what was inevitable and wanted to re-clarify the program standard. 

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You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7

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