Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy addressed the toxic influence of NIL deals on college football, making it clear that his program has their priorities straight as they enter the 2024 season.
Only days away from the start of the season, Gundy spoke about how the focus is solely on football from here on out.
Gundy revealed that he and his coaching staff have been advising players to put a hold on NIL discussions until the end of the season.
“The business side of what we do now is, we have to have those conversations with them,” Gundy told reporters. “Tell your agent to quit calling us and asking for more money. It’s non-negotiable now. Start again in December.”
Gundy stressed that, at this point, it’s all about on-field performance and winning football games.
“I told the players there’s no negotiating now,” Gundy added. “Portal’s over. All negotiation’s history. Now we’re playing football. Just coaching and playing football.”
The Cowboys have high expectations for the 2024 season, coming off a strong 10-4 finish in 2023, including a Texas Bowl victory over Texas A&M and an appearance in the Big 12 Championship game, where they fell to Texas 49-21.
With Texas and Oklahoma exiting the Big 12, Oklahoma State is poised to be a top contender for the conference title and a potential spot in the College Football Playoff.
While NIL deals may be at the top of many players’ minds, Gundy made it clear that the only business the Cowboys will now be dealing with is winning football games on the field.
Oklahoma State will kick off the season on August 31 against South Dakota State.
Gundy’s comments are undoubtedly a glimpse into what many coaches at programs across the country are dealing with.
While it’s great that players can now be compensated for what they bring to their programs and universities, it’s clear the whole Wild Wild West world of NIL and the transfer portal has become an absolute headache for coaches.
What are your thoughts on Gundy’s comments and the overall situation???