Oklahoma State University and head football coach Mike Gundy have agreed to a restructured contract following the team’s challenging 2024 season, which saw the Cowboys finish with a disappointing 0-9 record in Big 12 conference play. The revised deal reflects a renewed commitment to rebuilding the program after its first winless conference season under Gundy’s 20-year tenure.
Details of the Restructured Deal
The restructured contract includes a significant reduction in Gundy’s annual salary, which had been among the highest in the Big 12. It also modifies performance-based incentives, emphasizing benchmarks like bowl game eligibility and recruiting class rankings. The terms signal a shift in priorities toward long-term development and accountability.
Athletic Director Chad Weiberg addressed the changes in a statement:
“We remain confident in Coach Gundy’s ability to lead this program, but after a tough season, it’s necessary to take steps to ensure Oklahoma State football returns to the level of competitiveness our fans and alumni expect.”
A Season to Forget
The 2024 season marked the Cowboys’ worst performance under Gundy, who has been a mainstay in Stillwater since taking the helm in 2005. Struggles on both sides of the ball, inconsistent quarterback play, and injuries plagued the team throughout the season.
Their closest opportunity for a conference win came in a late-season matchup against Kansas State, which ended in a heartbreaking overtime loss. Despite the adversity, Gundy maintained his focus on player development and emphasized resilience during press conferences.
“This season was unacceptable by our standards, and I take full responsibility. We’re already working to fix the issues and come back stronger next year,” Gundy said during his end-of-season remarks.
Fan and Alumni Reactions
The winless conference season has sparked mixed reactions among fans and alumni. While some have called for a coaching change, others believe Gundy’s long history of success—including a Big 12 championship in 2011 and multiple New Year’s Six bowl appearances—warrants patience.
The restructured contract has been seen as a compromise, allowing Gundy to remain while addressing the need for a clear turnaround.
Path Forward
Gundy’s focus now shifts to the offseason, where recruiting and staff changes will be critical. The Cowboys have already announced the departure of several assistant coaches, including offensive coordinator Kasey Dunn, signaling a broader restructuring of the coaching staff.
In addition to improving the roster, Gundy has emphasized modernizing the team’s playbook and enhancing player development programs. With Oklahoma State entering an increasingly competitive Big 12 landscape, the road to recovery will be challenging but not impossible.
The Cowboys’ 2025 schedule includes non-conference games against Arkansas and Boise State, providing an opportunity to build momentum before returning to Big 12 play. For Gundy, the upcoming season will be pivotal in determining his legacy and future with the program.
Oklahoma State fans will be watching closely, hopeful that the restructured deal signals a new chapter of success.