JOEY MCGUIRE ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM TEXAS TECH FOOTBALL BUT LEAVES DOOR OPEN FOR RETURN UNDER SPECIFIC CONDITIONS…… DETAILS BELOW…..

LUBBOCK, TX — In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football world and particularly in West Texas, Texas Tech Red Raiders head coach Joey McGuire has officially announced his retirement from coaching. However, in a surprising twist, McGuire revealed that his retirement might not be permanent — and that a return is possible, but only under certain conditions.

The 55-year-old coach, who has served as the face of Texas Tech football since 2021, made the announcement in an emotional press conference early Friday morning. Surrounded by players, staff, and university officials, McGuire fought back tears as he addressed the media and the Red Raider faithful.

“This has been the greatest honor of my professional life,” McGuire began. “Coaching at Texas Tech, working with these young men, and building something special here in Lubbock — it’s something I will always cherish. But after deep reflection and heartfelt conversations with my family, I’ve decided to step away.”

McGuire, known for his high-energy leadership, passionate recruiting efforts, and “Texas high school football guy” persona, helped rejuvenate a program that had been searching for identity since the Mike Leach era. In just a few seasons, he led the Red Raiders to multiple bowl games and recruited several top-tier prospects, building what many believed to be the foundation for sustained success.

While fans had hoped for a long McGuire tenure in Lubbock, the coach cited personal and professional burnout, as well as health and family considerations, as primary factors behind his decision.

“Being a college football coach in this era is a 24/7 commitment,” he said. “I’ve loved every second of it, but it’s also come with sacrifices. I need time to recharge and be with my family — something I haven’t done enough of.”

Despite the announcement, McGuire was clear: this might not be goodbye forever.

“I’m not closing the door,” he said with a smirk. “If the program continues to build the right way — if I see that the commitment to our values, to recruiting the right kids, to supporting the staff — then who knows? I may just put the headset back on one day.”

He laid out what he called his “terms for reconsideration,” a list of conditions that would have to be met for him to consider returning to college football:

1. Continued investment in athlete development and mental health resources

2. Stronger administrative support for NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) initiatives

3. Commitment to Texas recruiting pipelines and relationships with high school coaches

4. A sustainable balance between coaching demands and family life

“I’m not asking for miracles,” McGuire said. “But if college football can evolve in a way that allows coaches to care for their players, their staff, and their families — I’ll be watching closely.”

The announcement has sparked an emotional response from Texas Tech fans. Social media was immediately flooded with tributes, thank-you messages, and open calls for McGuire to reconsider. On campus, students gathered around the football facility in silence, with many holding up signs reading, “We Love You Coach” and “Once a Red Raider, Always a Red Raider.”

Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt acknowledged the difficulty of the moment but expressed gratitude for McGuire’s contributions.

“Joey McGuire elevated Texas Tech Football in every sense,” Hocutt said. “His leadership, spirit, and integrity set a standard that will guide us moving forward.”

As the Red Raiders begin their search for a new head coach, one thing is clear: Joey McGuire’s impact on Texas Tech football is lasting. And though he may be stepping away, he hasn’t ruled out a comeback — one that Red Raider Nation will no doubt be hoping for.

For now, McGuire leaves the program not just as a coach, but as a beloved figure whose legacy will echo through the halls of Jones AT&T Stadium for years to come.