Tim Harris Jr. Turns Down $8 Million Ohio State Offer, Chooses Loyalty to FSU
FSU WR coach and Pass Game Coordinator TIM HARRIS JR. has turned down a jaw-dropping $8 million offer from the Ohio state Buckeyes
Despite the eye-popping figure and the prestige of joining one of the most storied programs in College football, HARRIS chose loyalty over money. In a brief statement released by FSU Athletics, Tim said:
”The Seminoles isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. The culture we’ve built here, the people, the players—this is where I want to be. The rivalry means everything, and I’d rather be on the right side of it.” His decision has not only won admiration from the FSU fans
TALLAHASSEE, FL — In an era where college football is increasingly driven by big money and rapid coaching turnovers, Tim Harris Jr. just made a statement that money can’t buy: loyalty.
The Florida State University wide receivers coach and pass game coordinator has reportedly declined a staggering $8 million offer from the Ohio State Buckeyes to join their coaching staff. The deal, which would have made him one of the highest-paid assistant coaches in college football history, was expected to be a game-changing move for the Buckeyes. Instead, Harris shocked the football world by saying “no” to the check and “yes” to the culture.
In a short but powerful statement released through FSU Athletics, Harris explained his decision:
> “The Seminoles isn’t just a job—it’s a mission. The culture we’ve built here, the people, the players—this is where I want to be. The rivalry means everything, and I’d rather be on the right side of it.”
The response across the FSU community has been electric. Fans flooded social media with messages of gratitude and support, praising Harris not only as a coach but as a man of principle. Former players chimed in too, echoing the sentiment that Harris is more than a play-caller—he’s a mentor, a motivator, and a culture-setter.
Building a Powerhouse in Tallahassee
Since joining FSU’s coaching staff, Harris has been instrumental in reviving the Seminoles’ offensive identity. His work with the wide receiver corps has turned raw recruits into NFL-ready prospects, and his influence in the passing game has played a vital role in FSU’s return to national relevance.
Behind the scenes, Harris has also earned a reputation as a fierce recruiter and a respected voice in the locker room. Several players credit him with their development both on and off the field.
“Coach Harris is the type of guy who will push you hard but love you harder,” said one FSU receiver who is expected to be a first-round draft pick. “He doesn’t just coach the player—he coaches the person.”
Turning Down the Buckeyes
Ohio State’s interest in Harris didn’t come out of nowhere. With their wide receiver legacy and high-powered offense, the Buckeyes are always on the hunt for elite coaching talent. Their $8 million offer reflected just how highly they regard Harris’s strategic mind and recruiting prowess.
But to Harris, it wasn’t enough.
Sources close to the situation say the offer was “not just generous, but historic.” Still, Harris didn’t flinch. For him, the chance to keep building something special in Tallahassee—and to continue challenging rivals like Miami and Florida—was worth more than any paycheck.
A Statement Heard Nationwide
Harris’s decision may ripple beyond FSU and Ohio State. At a time when NIL money, transfer portal chaos, and coaching musical chairs dominate headlines, Harris has become an unexpected poster child for commitment and long-term vision in college athletics.
“This is bigger than football,” said FSU Head Coach Mike Norvell. “Tim represents everything we’re building at Florida State—passion, purpose, and unity. We’re beyond lucky to have him, and today just confirmed what we already knew: he’s one of the best in the game.”
What’s Next for Harris?
With his stock soaring and national attention now squarely on him, many believe it’s only a matter of time before Harris gets a shot at a head coaching role—perhaps even at FSU someday. But for now, he remains locked in on one goal: bringing championships back to Tallahassee.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Seminoles look like a team on a mission—led, in part, by a coach who just proved that loyalty, heart, and belief still have a place in the game.
And somewhere in Columbus, Ohio, a few folks are probably wishing he felt differently.
FSU fans, how are you feeling about Tim Harris Jr.’s decision? Drop your thoughts below and let us know: Is this the turning point for a new golden era in Tallahassee?
