As Oklahoma State football navigates one of its most uncertain periods in recent memory, Director of Football Business Kenyatta Wright is facing the challenge head-on: keeping players in Stillwater and recruits committed to the program amid a coaching transition.
With the search for a new head coach underway and several staff futures up in the air, Wright acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining stability in recruiting but he emphasized that effort and commitment from within the program have not wavered.
"“It’s not that the current staff isn’t trying hard enough,” Wright said. “Everyone in the building is putting in the work — calling kids, keeping those relationships alive, and showing them what Oklahoma State football is really about.”"Kenyatta Wright
Interim head coach Doug Meacham recently shared a similar sentiment while addressing the team’s recent decommitments.
"“I’m talking to them and I understand where they are coming from at this point, just like anybody would,” Meacham said. “If it happens, it happens, and we’ll move on to the next one.”"OSU Interim HC Doug Meacham
Both Meacham and athletic director Chad Weiberg recognize the balancing act facing the current coaching staff. Trying to keep everyone still focused on Oklahoma State’s present while also laying the groundwork for its future, even as their own roles beyond this season remain uncertain. Wright echoed that confidence, saying the staff continues to handle business the right way.
The 2026 recruiting class, Wright admitted, will be a challenge to rebuild as the program transitions to a new era. However, he expressed optimism that once the head coaching situation is resolved, Oklahoma State will regain strong momentum heading into the 2027 cycle and beyond.
Wright also pointed to an often-overlooked factor that can influence recruiting, the fan base. He believes Cowboy fans have a major role to play in helping Oklahoma State maintain its energy and appeal.
Wright goes into talking about how the fans are a huge part of this. When recruits see excitement in the stands and online, it makes a difference. They still want that buzz to stay alive so our players feel supported and so new players want to be part of that atmosphere.
Despite the challenges of a down season and ongoing transition, Wright remains focused on the bigger picture: keeping Oklahoma State football steady, united, and ready for its next chapter.