Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State’s head coach, recently appeared on the Pat McAfee Show, where he extensively discussed NIL, player negotiations, and standout player Ollie Gordon. During the show, Gundy emphasized the nonnegotiable nature of NIL for players, stating that inquiries for more money should cease until the upcoming portal closes. He also predicted that college athletes will soon be considered employees due to increasing high-value contracts. In addition, he praised Gordon’s exceptional abilities and performance, emphasizing his importance to the team leading up to their season opener against South Dakota State.
By the Numbers
- Ollie Gordon led the nation in rushing last season, becoming a consensus All-American after only carrying the ball 19 times in the first three games.
- Gundy was approached about scheduling Alabama nearly a decade ago, expressing doubt about still coaching by the time the game occurs in 2028-2029.
State of Play
- The Oklahoma State Cowboys are preparing for their opener against South Dakota State, a team with two consecutive FCS national titles.
- Gundy is developing a strategy focused solely on football, as he seeks to minimize off-field distractions from player contracts and negotiations.
What’s Next
As the season progresses, Gundy’s approach may lead to tighter focus on player performance without off-field concerns. The impact of NIL negotiations on player retention will continue to evolve, particularly as the portal opens again in December. Watch for Gundy’s recruitment strategies and how they will adapt to changes in player expectations…