The landscape of college football has drastically changed with the introduction of the transfer portal, and coaches like Mike Gundy are navigating this new reality with a sense of urgency. For Oklahoma State, and for Gundy specifically, the transfer portal is undeniably a critical tool. Here's how it's playing a role:

Roster Rebuilding:
Like many programs, Oklahoma State has seen significant roster turnover. The transfer portal allows them to quickly address gaps and add experienced players.  
After a less than stellar 2024 season, there is a clear need for the program to show improvement. Therefore the transfer portal is a very important tool for them to use.
Maintaining Competitiveness:
In the highly competitive Big 12 conference, teams must adapt to the evolving recruiting landscape. The transfer portal is now a key component of that.
To remain competitive, Oklahoma state has had to embrace the portal, to keep up with other big 12 teams.
Gundy's Job Security:
After a difficult season, there's increased scrutiny on the program's performance. The transfer portal provides an opportunity to rapidly improve the team's talent level.
How Oklahoma state performs in the next season will have a direct impact on Mike Gundy's job security. So the transfer portal is a key tool that he is using to try and insure that the team performs well.
Adapting to the New Era:
The transfer portal, combined with NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, has created a "free agency" environment in college football. Coaches must now be adept at both recruiting high school prospects and managing their roster through the portal.  
Mike Gundy, like all other coaches, is having to adapt to this new era of college football.  
In essence, Oklahoma State's active use of the transfer portal is a reflection of the current state of college football, and a key tool in Mike Gundy's efforts to ensure the program's success.

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