Jim Tressel, the legendary Ohio State football coach who led the Buckeyes to a national championship and six Big Ten titles, is poised to take on a new challenge—this time in government. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has nominated Tressel to serve as the state’s next lieutenant governor, filling the position left vacant by Jon Husted’s move to the U.S. Senate.
Tressel’s nomination now heads to the Ohio General Assembly for confirmation. Given that Republicans hold strong majorities in both chambers and DeWine himself is a Republican, approval is expected to be a mere formality.
A Coach Turned Leader
“He has the leadership skills, the experience, and the deep understanding of Ohio that this role demands,” DeWine said during Monday’s announcement. “Jim Tressel is someone I trust. He is a born leader.”
Tressel, 72, is no stranger to leadership. He built a powerhouse football program at Ohio State from 2001 to 2010 before resigning amid an NCAA rules violation controversy in 2011. He then pivoted to higher education, serving as president of Youngstown State University from 2014 to 2023. During his tenure, the university saw significant growth, including raising $150 million in funding.
A New Focus: Education and Workforce Development
DeWine revealed that Tressel’s primary focus as lieutenant governor will be education and workforce development.
“This is a humbling moment,” Tressel said. “I believe in our governor’s vision, and for the next 699 days, I am committed to serving the people of Ohio with a singleness of purpose.”
Despite speculation in political circles, DeWine clarified that he has not discussed any future gubernatorial ambitions with Tressel. However, Tressel has been rumored for various political roles in the past, including potential U.S. Senate runs.
From the Gridiron to Government
Though he has never held public office, Tressel’s influence in Ohio is undeniable. In 2015, Ohio State inducted him into its Athletics Hall of Fame, and his coaching legacy remains strong, with a career record of 94-21 at OSU.
Now, he is set to step onto an entirely different playing field—one where leadership is still key, but the stakes are even higher. If confirmed, Tressel will serve the remaining two years of the lieutenant governor’s term, helping shape policy and governance in the state he has long called home.
