As college athletics continue to evolve at a breakneck pace, stable leadership is more critical than ever. Yet at Oklahoma State University, Athletic Director Chad Weiberg has been operating without a formal contract since June. While university officials insist his situation will be addressed “in due time,” the lack of urgency feels increasingly out of step with the demands of modern college sports.
That phrase — "in due time" — doesn’t seem fair for an athletic director who has dedicated years to the university and delivered consistent leadership through major transitions. Taking care of top-level leadership sets the tone for the entire department. If an AD feels undervalued, how does that perception trickle down to the rest of the staff?
Chad Weiberg's Tenure
Weiberg took over in 2021, stepping into a role that had grown far more complex in recent years. He inherited a volatile landscape marked by conference realignment, NIL reforms, and an evolving athlete empowerment movement. Despite the turbulence, he brought stability and results. Under his leadership, OSU has claimed multiple national championships in sports like equestrian, cross country, and golf. He replaced longtime AD Mike Holder and hit the ground running with no excuses, just work.
During his tenure, Weiberg has overseen the hiring of four head coaches in key programs and kept the department unified despite the challenges facing collegiate athletics nationwide. Yet, despite those accomplishments, he is now several months removed from the expiration of his original four-year contract and with still no formal extension in place.
Why No Deal?
That silence raises more questions than answers.
The fact that Weiberg continues to serve without a formal deal speaks volumes about his commitment to the university. But it also highlights a concerning lack of initiative from OSU’s administration. Athletic directors don’t just oversee sports teams; they manage media rights deals, fundraising, facilities, alumni relations, and the holistic development of student-athletes. His performance in these areas has been steady and effective. Is this not exactly what any university would want in a modern AD?
While his previous compensation was competitive, this situation isn’t about money—it’s about clarity. Uncertainty at the top affects every level of the athletic department. Coaches want to know who they’re working for. Recruits and their families want reassurance that leadership is stable. Donors, especially in today’s NIL-driven landscape, want to see a clear vision before investing in the future.
People inside and outside the program need to know who’s captaining the ship before they commit to the journey.
Oklahoma State Holds The Cards: For Good or Bad
And if OSU doesn’t come to terms with Weiberg, the optics could grow even worse. Any prospective replacement watching this play out may hesitate to step into a role where commitment from the university seems uncertain. Why take a job where leadership isn’t valued—or where loyalty isn’t returned?
So, what’s the holdup? Perhaps the delay stems from administrative changes, budgeting, or contract negotiations. Regardless of the reason, the longer the silence continues, the more it undermines the values OSU claims to stand for. A university that prides itself on loyalty and tradition needs to reflect those values in how it treats its leadership. This should be highlighted even more with someone who has navigated the institution through some of its most challenging times.
This isn't just about giving Weiberg a raise or extending a contract. It's about showing that OSU is serious about continuity, accountability, and investing in the people who are steering its athletic future. Culture starts at the top, and if leadership doesn’t feel secure or supported, that uncertainty can seep into every level of the program.
At some point soon, OSU will likely finalize a new deal for Chad Weiberg. When it happens, it should include a longer term, appropriate compensation, and incentives that reflect the realities of modern college athletics. But until then, the current ambiguity leaves room for doubt—and doubt isn’t good for trust, recruiting, or growth.
Weiberg deserves more than vague promises that his situation “will be addressed.” He has earned a renewed contract, not just for his track record, but for the culture and clarity he brings to the athletic department. It’s time Oklahoma State ends this unnecessary question mark and reaffirms its commitment to one of its most valuable leaders.