Mike Gundy firing: Former Oklahoma State coach's final message to players revealed

Following his firing from Oklahoma State Tuesday, Mike Gundy spoke with the players, On3’s Chris Low reported. He had a strong message, telling them to finish out the season the right way.

Gundy was not able to initially tell his players he had been fired, but met with them later Tuesday. He also told them how much they meant to him and said he would always be there if they needed.

Oklahoma State announced its decision to part ways with Gundy Tuesday in the midst of his 21st season with the program. Offensive coordinator Doug Meacham will serve as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season, and athletics director Chad Weiberg will lead the search for a full-time replacement.

Mike Gundy spoke to the Oklahoma State football team Tuesday after not being able to tell his players initially that he had been fired. He told them how much they had meant to him and how he would always be there for them and urged them to finish out the season the right way.

— Chris Low (@clowfb) September 24, 2025

Gundy became the winningest coach in Oklahoma State history after taking over at his alma mater in 2005. He finished his time in Stillwater with 170 wins at the helm, which is over 100 more than the second-most in program history. He was due a $15 million buyout at the time of his departure.

“Cowboy Football reached an unprecedented level of success and national prominence under Coach Gundy’s leadership,” Weiberg said in a statement. “I believe I speak for OSU fans everywhere when I say that we are grateful for all he did to raise the standard and show us all what is possible for Oklahoma State football.”

However, this might not necessarily be the end for Gundy on the sidelines. His brother Cale Gundy told On3’s Brett McMurphy the legendary coach is still planning to coach – and he plans to be by his side.

“Hell yes and I’m going with him,” Cale Gundy said when asked if Mike would continue to coach after leaving Oklahoma State.

More on the end Mike Gundy’s tenure at Oklahoma State

Oklahoma State last made the Big 12 Championship in 2023, falling to Texas. From there, things got rough for Mike Gundy and the Cowboys, who went just 3-9 in 2024. The 2025 season started out with a win over UT Martin – a game in which starting quarterback Hauss Hejny got hurt – but the noise got louder after Week 2.

Oklahoma State got blown out in a Week 2 game at Oregon as the Ducks got a resounding 69-3 victory. That matchup came after Gundy commented on Oregon’s investment through NIL and facilities, and Ducks quarterback Dante Moore said it made things personal in the matchup.

From there, Oklahoma State had a bye week before taking on Tulsa in Week 4. The Cowboys’ offense struggled again and the Golden Hurricane had a huge night, as well, to get the upset victory at Boone Pickens Stadium.