As Oklahoma State football begins to navigate life after longtime head coach Mike Gundy, one name gaining early attention among fans and analysts is Zac Robinson, a former Cowboys standout quarterback and current offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. But when asked this week about the head coaching vacancy at his alma mater, Robinson kept things close to the vest.
"“I’ll kind of leave that. But just honestly, I’m focused on today and progressing this week.”"Falcons OC Zac Robinson
With those carefully chosen words, Robinson didn’t confirm interest but he didn’t deny it either. And in doing so, he left the door wide open for speculation about what, if anything, is happening behind the scenes.
A Deep Connection to Stillwater
Robinson’s ties to Oklahoma State run deep. He played for the Cowboys from 2005 to 2009 under Gundy, emerging as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in program history. By the time he left Stillwater, Robinson had become a fan favorite, known for his poise, arm talent, and leadership during one of OSU’s most exciting stretches in recent memory.
That history alone makes him a logical candidate in the eyes of many. Add in his growing résumé as a coach at the NFL level, and it’s not hard to see why his name is trending as a possible successor. He knows the tradition and respects the legacy that previous head coach Mike Gundy left behind. This matters whne trying to replace such a legend of Gundy's status.
Rising Through the NFL Ranks
Since 2019, Robinson has been steadily climbing the coaching ladder in the NFL. He joined the Los Angeles Rams staff as an assistant quarterbacks coach and continued to rise, eventually becoming their passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2022. His work in L.A. drew praise, particularly for his development of quarterbacks and ability to design creative, modern offensive schemes.
This offseason, Robinson made another leap, departing the Rams alongside Raheem Morris when Morris was hired as the Atlanta Falcons’ head coach. Robinson was named offensive coordinator — a major step forward in what’s quickly becoming a promising coaching career.
What His Comments Might Mean
Robinson’s brief and noncommittal response to the Oklahoma State speculation has stirred up plenty of conversation. While he didn’t say much, the subtext of his answer has invited multiple interpretations.
It could be that Robinson is simply focused on his current role with the Falcons and doesn't want any distractions. As a first-year coordinator in the NFL, his priority may very well be proving himself at that level before entertaining any college opportunities, even one as personally meaningful as Oklahoma State.
Then again, Robinson could be keeping his cards close to his chest. It’s not uncommon for coaches, especially those currently under contract, to stay quiet on job rumors as a form of professional courtesy or strategic discretion. His answer may have been an intentional effort to avoid fueling the fire while conversations are ongoing behind the scenes.
Another possibility: Robinson has already been contacted, or is in early discussions, and is simply unable to speak publicly about it due to tampering rules, non-disclosure agreements, or mutual professional respect. If that’s the case, his “I’ll kind of leave that” line might have been his way of signaling that something is brewing — without saying so directly.
A Name to Watch
Regardless of how his comments are interpreted, Zac Robinson’s name will remain firmly in the mix as long as Oklahoma State’s head coaching job remains open. His resume, OSU legacy, and rising star status in the coaching world make him a natural candidate — and one that fans would likely embrace.
His decision to neither confirm nor deny interest has only intensified speculation, as observers continue to read between the lines. For now, Robinson appears content to focus on his job in Atlanta, but the intrigue surrounding his future, and especially a possible return to Stillwater, isn’t likely to fade anytime soon.