Home Sweet Home: Major Applewhite Returns to Texas Longhorns as Director of Player Development, Reunites with Program He Helped Define
The Texas Longhorns are welcoming back a familiar face to the Forty Acres, as former quarterback and coach Major Applewhite has returned to the program. This time, Applewhite takes on the role of Director of Player Development, bringing his wealth of experience, deep ties to Texas football, and a passion for mentoring student-athletes back to the place where his football legacy began.
Applewhite, a beloved figure in Texas football history, was a star quarterback for the Longhorns from 1998 to 2001. During his playing days, he became a fan favorite for his grit, leadership, and playmaking ability. He still ranks among the top quarterbacks in school history, having set numerous passing records during his time in burnt orange. But more than stats, it was his heart and competitive spirit that endeared him to Texas fans and established him as a key figure in the program’s rich tradition.
Now, over two decades after his final game under center, Applewhite returns to Austin in a new capacity—one that allows him to give back to the program that shaped him, while helping shape the next generation of Longhorns. As Director of Player Development, Applewhite will work closely with student-athletes off the field, supporting their personal growth, academic success, and preparation for life after football. His role will be pivotal in fostering a positive culture, instilling leadership values, and providing mentorship from someone who knows exactly what it means to wear the Texas jersey.
For Applewhite, the return is deeply personal. “Texas is home,” he said in a statement. “This program gave me so much—on and off the field. I’m honored to come back and help today’s players get the most out of their experience as Longhorns, just like I did.”
Applewhite brings with him a robust coaching résumé. After his playing career ended, he quickly transitioned into coaching, serving on staffs at Syracuse, Rice, Alabama, and Texas. He was co-offensive coordinator under Mack Brown and later became the head coach at the University of Houston. His years of experience at both the collegiate and leadership levels give him a unique perspective that is invaluable in a developmental role.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian praised the hire, calling Applewhite “an outstanding addition to our staff.” The two previously worked together at Alabama, building a relationship rooted in mutual respect and shared vision. Sarkisian emphasized that Applewhite’s familiarity with the program and his commitment to helping young men grow into leaders made him the ideal fit for the position.
The move also resonates with fans and alumni who see Applewhite as a symbol of the Longhorns’ proud football heritage. His return signals a renewed focus on building strong internal foundations, with former players actively contributing to the program’s growth and success.
As Texas continues its pursuit of excellence on and off the field, the addition of Major Applewhite adds another layer of tradition, experience, and heart to the team’s culture. His homecoming is more than a job—it’s a reunion with a program he helped define, and a new chapter in a story that began decades ago under the Texas sun.
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