Report: Mike Gundy will return as Oklahoma State coach after standoff with school
After a reported “standoff,” Mike Gundy is set to return as Oklahoma State head coach in 2025, The Action Network’s Brett McMurphy reported. His future came into question amid an impasse over a restructured contract.
The Cowboys struggled to a 3-9 record this season, leading to frustration around the program. Gundy moved on from both coordinators as a result, and he reportedly told some people the administration reportedly wanted to restructure his contract and cut his salary. Gundy’s current contract is a rolling five-year deal, and his base salary this year was $7.75 million.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported if Gundy didn’t agree to a restructured deal, the Cowboys could fire him for cause. He would be owed more than $25 million if he was fired without cause.
On3’s Pete Nakos also reported Oklahoma State planned to cut Gundy’s base salary and re-allocate those funds to going all-in on NIL, should he agree. If Gundy didn’t, the school would terminate his contract.
Top 10
- 1Breaking
Johntay Cook
Texas WR, Huskies part ways
- 2
Transfer Portal window
Coaches propose big change
- 3Hot
Sanders addresses rumors
Prime talks Cowboys job
- 4
Fake injuries
New rule under discussion
- 5Trending
Kiffin jabs Saban
Sydney Thomas pic sparks shot
Get the On3 Top 10 to your inbox every morning
By clicking "Subscribe to Newsletter", I agree to On3's Privacy Notice, Terms, and use of my personal information described therein.
The Cowboys went 3-9 in 2024 and didn’t win a single conference game after being picked to finish third in the Big 12 preseason poll. It marks just the second time Oklahoma State failed to reach bowl eligibility during Mike Gundy’s 20-year tenure, and the first time since his first season at the helm in 2005 when the Pokes went 4-7.
Oklahoma State fired both offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn and defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo shortly after the regular season ended, according to ESPN’s Max Olson. OSU took a major step back offensively as running back Ollie Gordon rushed for half the amount of yards he had in 2023, when he led the country with 1,732. The Cowboys had quarterback issues all season, as well, and benched starter Alan Bowman at multiple points throughout the year.
The defense also struggled mightily this year. Oklahoma State allowed 35.6 points per game, which ranked 126th in the FBS. The run defense also had a rough go, ranking 129th in the country with 215 yards per game allowed on the ground.