Columbus, Ohio – Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has agreed to a new contract extension that will keep him in charge of the Buckeyes through the 2031 season. The deal, which is pending approval from the university’s Board of Trustees, is reportedly worth $87.5 million over seven years, making Day one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.
The extension comes after a successful season in which Ohio State won the national championship, solidifying Day’s place among the elite coaches in the sport. Despite rumors of NFL interest, particularly from teams searching for a new head coach, Day has chosen to remain in Columbus and continue building on the program’s recent success.
Commitment to Stability
Day’s decision to sign a long-term extension is a significant moment for Ohio State, as it ensures stability for the program moving forward. Since taking over as head coach in 2019 following Urban Meyer’s departure, Day has compiled an impressive record, leading the Buckeyes to multiple College Football Playoff appearances and securing a national title.
University officials and athletic director Gene Smith have expressed their confidence in Day, citing his leadership, recruiting prowess, and ability to develop players for the NFL.
“Ryan has been instrumental in maintaining Ohio State’s status as a premier football program,” Smith said in a statement. “His leadership on and off the field has been exceptional, and we are excited about the future under his guidance.”
Biggest Contract in Ohio State History
The reported $12.5 million annual salary in Day’s new deal places him among the highest-paid coaches in college football, alongside Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer and Georgia’s Kirby Smart. His previous contract, signed in 2022, paid him approximately $9.5 million per year.
This extension signals Ohio State’s commitment to keeping Day at the helm despite growing competition in college football and interest from the NFL. Multiple NFL teams had reportedly inquired about Day’s availability following the Buckeyes’ championship run, but the coach made it clear that his focus remained on Ohio State.
Recruiting and Program Future
One of Day’s biggest strengths has been his ability to recruit and develop top-tier talent. Under his leadership, Ohio State has consistently secured top recruiting classes, bringing in elite prospects such as star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith and quarterback Will Howard.
With this contract extension, Day can now assure recruits and their families that he will remain at Ohio State for the foreseeable future, a crucial factor in college football’s highly competitive recruiting landscape.
Looking Ahead
With Day now locked in for the long term, the focus shifts to the 2025 season, where the Buckeyes will aim to defend their national title. Ohio State’s roster remains stacked with talent, and expectations will remain high as they prepare for another championship run.
Fans and alumni have expressed excitement about the extension, believing that Day is the right leader to continue Ohio State’s tradition of excellence. With his future now secure, the Buckeyes can move forward with confidence as they strive for continued success on the national stage.
