In light of Michigan State (and other programs) doing diligence on Oregon State head coach Jonathan Smith, Oregon State AD Scott Barnes has now issued a statement.
Issued today following news that Michigan State has Smith atop their list, Barnes' statement reads as follows:
"Coach Smith and I have had ongoing conversations for more than a month regarding his future at Oregon State and our path forward for football specifically and our athletic department generally. He has embraced our short and long term plans. My No. 1 priority is providing him with a new contract and guaranteed compensation that will help continue the success of the football program that has benefitted Oregon State University and Beavers' Athletics. Coach Smith and I have also discussed our commitment to extending assistant coaches' contracts and increasing the salary pool for his staff to retain the continuity of what they have all built together for Beaver Nation."
So, that says what it says. It says Barnes and Smith have had conversations and Barnes' number one goal is to provide Smith with a new contract. It adds they have had discussions regarding assistant coaches' compensation. That's really about all it says.
What it doesn't say is Jonathan Smith is staying at Oregon State. Hopefully for Beaver fans, that happens; but the reality is he is listening to what is out there.
Somewhat interesting is that the statement doesn't mention anything about NIL needs for players which is a drum that is often beaten. Take from that what you will.
Oregon State plays Oregon Friday night.
Head here to read more on Michigan State's pursuit of Smith.