OU's Joe Castiglione will step away from his full-time role after 28 years, but is staying on as athletic director emeritus upon the school's hiring of his replacement, The Oklahoman confirmed Monday.

Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione. who has led the Sooners since 1998, will retire from his full-time responsibilities during the upcoming school year, according to ESPN. Castiglione will retain his title as athletic director emeritus whenever Oklahoma places his successor into office.

Monday morning, the world of the Oklahoma Sooners was rocked by the sudden retirement announcement of longtime athletic director Joe Castiglione. Castiglione, 67, will serve his tenure for the rest of the upcoming academic year,