Ohio State head coach Ryan Day is closing in on finalizing his coaching staff for the 2025 season, with official announcements expected in the coming days.
Following his appearance at the Ohio High School Football Coaches’ Association clinic, where he reflected on Ohio State’s 2024 national championship season, Day provided an update on staff changes. While he didn’t confirm any promotions or new hires yet, he indicated that the process is nearly complete.
“We’re still putting the finishing touches on it,” Day said. “I’m hoping by this weekend or early next week, we’ll have everything finalized. We have great people on staff and others interested in joining, so we’re making sure we get the right fit for the program.”
Expected Staff Changes
Ohio State is set to make key adjustments, including:
• Offensive Coordinator: Brian Hartline, currently the wide receivers coach, is expected to take on the role.
• Quarterbacks Coach: Offensive analyst Billy Fessler is expected to be promoted.
• Offensive Line Coach/Run Game Coordinator: Virginia Tech offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen is anticipated to join the Buckeyes.
• Defensive Coordinator: The replacement for Jim Knowles remains uncertain. Potential internal promotions include safeties coach Matt Guerrieri and secondary coach Tim Walton. Externally, Kansas City Chiefs defensive line coach Joe Cullen and Pittsburgh defensive coordinator Randy Bates have been mentioned as possibilities.
Ryan Day’s New Contract
Ohio State officially secured Ryan Day’s leadership for the long term, announcing on Thursday that he had signed a new seven-year deal worth $12.5 million annually. Day expressed gratitude for the university’s commitment and credited the Buckeye community for making it possible.
“I just want to say thank you to everybody involved,” Day said. “Starting with Buckeye Nation, then the Board of Trustees, President (Ted) Carter, (athletic director Ross Bjork), our coaching staff, and obviously, our players. None of this would be possible without all of us working together. We’re honored to represent Ohio State for the next seven years.”
With Ohio State fresh off a national championship and looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Buckeyes are making strategic staff decisions to maintain their dominance in college football.
