A whirlwind of speculation is gripping the heart of West Texas as reports suggest that Texas Tech Red Raiders Head Coach Joey McGuire might not be patrolling the sidelines next season, with whispers growing louder that he’s eyeing a move to the NFL before the conclusion of the 2026 regular season. This potential mid-season announcement has sent ripples of concern through the Red Raider faithful.
Joey McGuire, known for his infectious energy and deep ties to Texas high school football, has steadily worked to rebuild the Texas Tech program since taking over in 2022. He’s injected a renewed sense of pride and toughness, leading the Red Raiders to consecutive bowl appearances and fostering a strong connection with the fanbase. His emphasis on recruiting top in-state talent has been a cornerstone of his strategy, and his impact on the program is undeniable.
However, the nature of this “breaking news” is particularly unsettling. The notion that McGuire would announce his departure for an NFL team before the 2026 college football season has even run its course is highly unusual and, frankly, disruptive. While coaches often move between college and professional ranks, a mid-season departure from a head coaching position is rare and could throw the program into immediate turmoil.
The exact NFL team linked to McGuire remains unconfirmed, but his reputation as a motivator, a strong recruiter, and a coach who understands the intricacies of defensive play could make him an attractive candidate for various professional roles, from a coordinator position to potentially even a head coaching gig if the right opportunity arises.
Should these rumors materialize into an official announcement, the consequences for Texas Tech would be significant. A head coach leaving mid-season could severely impact team morale, disrupt ongoing recruiting efforts for future classes, and force the university to quickly install an interim coach and initiate a potentially lengthy and complex search for a permanent replacement.
For the Red Raider Nation, who have passionately supported McGuire and his vision for the program, this news is a jolt. The idea of losing their leader prematurely would be a bitter pill, especially as they continue to build momentum. The coming weeks will be filled with anxiety and anticipation as the Texas Tech community awaits clarity on McGuire’s future.
The landscape of college football is ever-evolving, with coaches frequently moving for new opportunities. However, a departure of this nature would set a peculiar precedent. All eyes will be on Lubbock as this story develops, eager to see if the Red Raiders will indeed be searching for a new head coach sooner than anyone anticipated.
