Oklahoma State University is reportedly dissatisfied with the performance of head football coach Mike Gundy during the 2024 season. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Gundy is in a standoff with the university regarding his contract, which the board has proposed to restructure, including a possible pay cut. However, specific details of this proposed restructured contract have not been disclosed to him yet.
A significant concern for the program is the exodus of key talent, notably running back Ollie Gordon, who recently announced his intention to enter the 2025 NFL Draft after an impressive career of nearly 3,000 rushing yards and 36 touchdowns. Following a challenging season where Gundy concluded with a disappointing 3-9 record, including an unprecedented 0-9 run in Big 12 play, the university has expressed their expectation for higher standards moving forward.
Despite Gundy’s notable achievements over his 20-year tenure, including being named Big 12 Coach of the Year last season and leading the team to 18 bowl appearances, the board is focused on recent results. There are discussions about potentially firing Gundy for cause if he does not accept the new contract, though he currently has a $25 million buyout clause. If a new agreement is reached, questions will arise concerning his choices for offensive and defensive coordinators, particularly following the recent firings of Kasey Dunn and Bryan Nardo.
While the situation appears difficult for both Gundy and Oklahoma State, it also presents an opportunity for the university to reflect on its football program and potentially usher in changes that could revitalize the team and return it to its competitive roots. With the implementation of an aggressive NIL strategy, there may be hope for attracting new talent to reinvigorate the team’s performance in forthcoming seasons.