Joe Jon Finley Finds New Home After OU Departure
Joe Jon Finley, the former Oklahoma tight ends coach and assistant offensive coordinator, has officially landed his next gig.
Finley, who spent the last three seasons on Brent Venables’ staff in Norman, is joining the coaching staff at Mississippi State. His new role will be as the Bulldogs’ tight ends coach and passing game coordinator - a significant hire for a program looking to build under new leadership.
This move comes after Finley was not retained by Oklahoma following the 2025 season, part of a broader shakeup as the Sooners prepare for their first season in the SEC. During his time at OU, Finley played a key role in developing talent in the tight end room and contributed to the offensive game planning. His departure marked one of several changes on the offensive side of the staff.
Now, he heads to Starkville, where he’ll be tasked with helping elevate Mississippi State’s passing attack - a unit that’s been searching for consistency. The Bulldogs are betting on Finley’s experience in high-powered offenses, particularly his time in Norman and previous stops at Texas A&M and Missouri, to bring some stability and creativity to their scheme.
Finley’s coaching journey has taken him across the SEC and Big 12, and this next chapter keeps him in familiar territory. He’s known for his ability to connect with players and for his detailed approach to tight end development, something Mississippi State will be counting on as they continue to reshape their offense.
For Oklahoma, this is one more piece of the puzzle falling into place as the Sooners continue to build out their new-look staff. Finley’s exit opened the door for fresh voices in the offensive room, and all eyes will be on how those changes translate on the field in 2026.
As for Finley, this is a fresh start and another opportunity to make his mark in the SEC - this time in maroon and white.