After graduating, Pinkel began his coaching career as a graduate assistant under Don James at Kent State. He later joined the coaching staff at the University of Washington, again working under James. Following a two-year stint at Bowling Green, Pinkel was appointed head coach at the University of Toledo in 1991. During his tenure, he became the winningest coach in Toledo football history, achieving a record of sustained success including an undefeated season in 1995.

In 2001, Pinkel was hired as the head coach of the University of Missouri Tigers. Over the course of his 15-year tenure at Missouri, he led the team to ten bowl appearances, winning six. A notable milestone came in 2003, when Missouri ended a 24-year losing streak against Nebraska under his leadership. In 2008, he signed a seven-year contract extension worth approximately $2.3 million annually, reflecting the program’s confidence in his leadership.

Among his many accolades, Pinkel was named MAC Coach of the Year in both 1995 and 1997 during his time at Toledo. At Missouri, he earned SEC Coach of the Year honors in 2014. His successful career earned him a place in the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.

Legacy and Life After Coaching

Gary Pinkel officially announced his retirement from coaching in 2015 after being diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He cited his desire to focus on health, family, and friends as the primary reason for his decision. At the time of his retirement, Pinkel had become the most successful coach in Missouri football history by wins, and he left behind a lasting legacy at both Toledo and Missouri.

Following his retirement, Pinkel has remained active in the football community through public speaking, fundraising, and alumni engagement. As of recent reports, his estimated net worth is approximately $10 million, reflecting his long-term success and contributions to collegiate football.