Ohio State’s triumphant journey to the national championship has culminated in a significant new contract for head coach Ryan Day. It was announced on Thursday that Day has inked a contract extension that will keep him at the helm of the Buckeyes’ football program through the 2031 season. This extension, adding three years to Day’s existing contract, also comes with a substantial pay increase, elevating his annual salary to a notable $12.5 million.
In a statement released by Ohio State, Athletic Director Ross Bjork praised Day’s leadership, stating, “Ohio State football has a rich tradition of excellence, and under Ryan Day’s guidance, this tradition has not only been upheld but flourished.” Bjork commended Day for his unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of the players both on and off the field, emphasizing how Day’s leadership has consistently propelled the team to national recognition. The crowning achievement came in 2024 when the Buckeyes clinched the national championship, showcasing the program’s core values of excellence, integrity, and resilience.
Despite setbacks with losses to Oregon and Michigan during the regular season, Ohio State went on to triumph over Tennessee in the College Football Playoff opener, followed by a resounding victory against Oregon in a memorable Rose Bowl rematch. The Buckeyes continued their momentum by defeating Texas and Notre Dame to secure their first national title in a decade.
According to the USA Today salary database, Day ranked as the fifth-highest paid coach in college football in 2024, trailing behind Kirby Smart of Georgia, Dabo Swinney of Clemson, Steve Sarkisian of Texas, and Lincoln Riley of USC. Day’s total earnings for 2024 amounted to just over $10 million. Sarkisian, the Texas head coach, also received a contract extension this offseason, extending his tenure through 2031 while also receiving a salary increase.
The news of Day’s contract extension comes shortly after assistant coach Brian Hartline was promoted to offensive coordinator. Hartline, who previously held the role of offensive coordinator in 2023, transitioned to co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach in 2024 when Chip Kelly took charge of the offense. With Kelly departing for the offensive coordinator position with the Las Vegas Raiders after a single season, Hartline is set to resume his duties as the offensive coordinator in 2025. Notably, Day previously held the play-calling responsibilities, which will now be assumed by Hartline in the upcoming season.
In light of the departure of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles to Penn State, Ohio State is now in search of a replacement for this crucial coaching position. Knowles, a native of Pennsylvania, has secured the title of the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football with his move to Penn State.
