With uncertainty looming over Mike Gundy’s future at Oklahoma State, speculation has already begun about who might eventually take the reins. After more than two decades in Stillwater, any change in leadership would mark a new era for the Cowboys. Whether Gundy steps down or is let go, OSU could find itself in the market for a new head coach — and several candidates stand out as possible fits. Some bring deep ties to the university, while others offer modern offensive vision or proven head coaching credentials.
Here’s a look at four names that could be in the conversation should a coaching change take place.
Potential Replacements for Mike Gundy
Zac Robinson – Offensive Coordinator, Atlanta Falcons
Zac Robinson’s name will immediately resonate with Oklahoma State fans. A standout quarterback for the Cowboys from 2006 to 2009, he remains a fan favorite and a symbol of one of the program’s most exciting offensive eras. That personal connection could play a meaningful role in his candidacy. Coaching your alma mater comes with emotional pull and deep institutional understanding — qualities that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Since transitioning into coaching, Robinson has worked his way up the NFL ladder and currently serves as the offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. A protégé of Sean McVay, Robinson brings NFL-level offensive acumen and could install a pro-style scheme that appeals to recruits and transfer prospects alike. While he’s never led a college program, his perspective, energy, and modern approach make him an intriguing, if slightly unconventional, candidate.
Alex Golesh – Head Coach, South Florida
Alex Golesh is a coach who has already demonstrated the ability to lead a college football program. After cutting his teeth as an assistant — including a stint as a graduate assistant at Oklahoma State — Golesh has been steadily building his resume at South Florida. In just two seasons, he has guided the Bulls to consecutive seven-win campaigns and back-to-back bowl victories, showcasing not just stability but upward momentum.
In 2025, Golesh has made waves again with early-season wins over Boise State and the University of Florida, propelling USF into the top 25 rankings. His offensive background and experience running a program make him a well-rounded option. While his ties to OSU aren’t as strong as others, his familiarity with the region and success as a play-caller and leader make him a serious contender.
Jon Sumrall – Head Coach, Tulane
Jon Sumrall is one of the more quietly effective coaches rising through the college football ranks. Known for his ability to instill culture and discipline, he turned Troy into a winning machine with 23 victories in two years before taking the Tulane job. At Tulane, he immediately led the Green Wave to a 9-win season and has started strong again in 2025.
Sumrall’s track record speaks to consistency and culture-building — two elements that could be especially valuable at a program like Oklahoma State, which has long relied on stability under Gundy. At 43, he’s young enough to bring fresh energy but seasoned enough to command respect in a high-pressure job. If the Cowboys want someone with a blueprint for sustainable success, Sumrall would be a wise pick.
Collin Klein – Offensive Coordinator, Texas A&M
Collin Klein is a name that will ring familiar to anyone who followed Big 12 football in the early 2010s. The former Kansas State quarterback and Heisman finalist has made a smooth transition into coaching, working his way up through the ranks at K-State before landing the offensive coordinator job at Texas A&M.
Klein hasn’t been a head coach yet, but he’s gaining momentum as a respected offensive mind and future leader. His background as a player gives him immediate credibility, and his understanding of the Big 12 landscape could be a major asset. While it would be a gamble to hire someone without head coaching experience, Klein represents the type of high-upside candidate that programs often look to when making a bold reset.
What Direction Will Oklahoma State Choose?
Oklahoma State finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. Should the university seek a coach with deep program ties who can preserve some continuity? Or will they opt for an outsider who brings a fresh voice and modern vision to a program in need of a spark?
Much of this conversation depends on whether Gundy remains in place through the end of the season — or if a decision is made sooner. But regardless of the timing, it’s clear that the Cowboys will need a coach who can energize the fanbase, compete in a shifting Big 12 landscape, and restore the program’s relevance on the national stage.
Whether it’s a familiar face like Robinson or a rising star like Golesh or Sumrall, the next hire could define the direction of Oklahoma State football for years to come. The stakes are high, and the right choice could be the key to getting the Cowboys back in the spotlight — or falling further behind in an increasingly competitive college football world.
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