Mike Gundy has been the head coach of the Oklahoma State University (OSU) football team since 2005, and over the years, his contract has evolved to reflect his success, market value, and the changing dynamics of college football. From his initial contract through to his most recent extension, Gundy’s deals have mirrored the increasing importance of college football coaches in the broader sports landscape, with rising compensation and more favorable terms reflecting his achievements on the field.
### Initial Contract and Early Years (2005-2007)
When Mike Gundy was hired as the head coach of Oklahoma State in 2005, he was just 38 years old and had never been a head coach at a major program. Gundy was brought in to help elevate OSU’s football program, which had long been a middling presence in the competitive Big 12 Conference. His initial contract was a six-year deal worth $7.5 million, which was relatively modest compared to some of the higher-profile coaching contracts at the time.
The 2005 hiring came on the heels of a disappointing period for OSU football, so Gundy’s contract wasn’t an immediate headline-grabber. However, Gundy’s familiarity with OSU as both a former player and assistant coach gave him a unique connection to the program. In the first few years of his tenure, Gundy demonstrated his coaching ability by gradually improving the team’s performance and recruiting efforts. OSU began to show signs of promise, particularly after a notable win over the University of Oklahoma in 2007, which helped cement Gundy’s position as a coach capable of revitalizing the program.
### Contract Extensions (2008-2011)
By 2008, Gundy had gained a solid reputation as one of the rising stars in college football. His contract was extended in 2008 for an additional two years, keeping him at OSU through 2013. This deal increased his compensation to approximately $1.85 million per year, an improvement that reflected his growing success.
The 2011 season was a major turning point for Gundy. Oklahoma State finished with an 11-1 record and earned a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game. The Cowboys were narrowly left out of the BCS National Championship Game but still played in a major bowl (the Fiesta Bowl) and finished the season ranked #3 in the country. Gundy’s stock soared during this period, and his success on the field translated into further contract negotiations.
In 2011, OSU’s athletic director, Mike Holder, and Gundy’s agent began negotiating a new, more lucrative contract. At the time, Gundy’s new deal—valued at $3.05 million per year—was one of the highest salaries among Big 12 coaches. This extension also included various incentives, reflecting Gundy’s growing prominence within the college football coaching landscape.
### Salary Increase and Reinforced Security (2012-2017)
In the years following his breakthrough season in 2011, Gundy continued to guide OSU to consistent success, even as the program faced increased competition from other Big 12 schools. With a solid track record of winning seasons, Gundy’s salary climbed further. A notable contract extension occurred in 2017, when Gundy agreed to a six-year extension that would keep him with the Cowboys through the 2022 season. The deal was reported to be worth approximately $5 million per year, further cementing his status as one of the top-paid coaches in the Big 12 Conference.
The extension was significant not only because of the salary increase but also due to the enhanced security it provided. Gundy’s success over more than a decade had earned him the trust of both the university’s administration and the fan base, and his position as head coach became more firmly entrenched. The contract extension helped quell rumors of him leaving for other coaching positions—rumors that had surfaced after successful seasons and strong recruiting efforts.
In addition to the salary increase, the 2017 extension included bonuses tied to performance metrics such as bowl games, conference championships, and wins over major rivals. The incentives reflected the increasing pressure and expectations placed on coaches to perform at a high level consistently.
### The 2020 Extension and Continued Market Growth
In 2020, Gundy was again given an extension, a deal that ensured he would remain the head coach of Oklahoma State through at least 2025. The contract was worth a reported $6 million per year, reinforcing Gundy’s status as a top-tier coach in the college football landscape. This extension came at a time of uncertainty in college football, with the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting the 2020 season and the NCAA’s financial landscape in flux. Nevertheless, Gundy’s reputation and the stability he had brought to OSU’s program made him a key figure for the university.
At the time, Gundy’s compensation structure was in line with the upper echelons of college football coaches, placing him among the highest-paid in the Big 12 and college football as a whole. His annual salary, combined with his incentives for postseason play, made the contract one of the most lucrative in OSU history.
### Recent Contract Developments and Performance-Based Adjustments (2021-Present)
Gundy’s current contract continues to reflect the escalating financial landscape of college football. In addition to his base salary, the most recent contract extensions and performance incentives offer significant bonuses. These bonuses are tied to various team achievements, including Big 12 titles, CFP appearances, and major bowl games. Gundy’s status as the head coach of one of the more prominent programs in the Big 12 gives him a significant bargaining position, especially as college football coaches’ salaries have risen dramatically over the past decade.
Throughout the years, Gundy’s contract has evolved to reflect his performance and market value. The evolution of his contract shows a consistent upward trajectory, with increases in salary and security. His contract extensions have also included incentives for academic performance, graduation rates, and other institutional goals, underlining the importance of balancing athletic success with the broader mission of the university.
As of 2024, Mike Gundy remains one of the longest-tenured and most successful coaches in the Big 12, and his contract reflects not only the results he has achieved but also his value as a leader in OSU’s athletics department. With increasing competition for top coaching talent, the financial commitment made by Oklahoma State to retain Gundy is indicative of the high stakes and rewards in college football today.
### Conclusion
Mike Gundy’s contract has grown substantially since his hiring in 2005. From a modest initial deal to one of the highest-paying in the Big 12, Gundy’s contract is a reflection of both his success on the field and the increasing importance of college football coaching in today’s sports environment. His extensions have not only compensated him generously but also have provided him with security, stability, and incentives tied to performance metrics. As Oklahoma State continues to compete in the Big 12 and beyond, Gundy’s contract is likely to evolve further, maintaining his standing as a central figure in the world of college football coaching.
