Ohio State football has officially extended head coach Ryan Day’s contract, keeping him at the helm through the 2031 season with a significant salary increase. The new agreement cements Day as one of the highest-paid coaches in college football, ensuring stability for the Buckeyes as they continue their pursuit of championships.
Financial Terms and Compensation
Day’s new deal raises his annual salary to $12.5 million, making him the second-highest-paid head coach in the nation, trailing only Georgia’s Kirby Smart. The contract includes a base salary of $2 million, with the bulk of his earnings coming from media obligations, sponsorship agreements, and apparel endorsements.
Key financial details include:
• Base Salary: $2 million per year
• Media and Sponsorship Compensation: $7.25 million
• Apparel and Equipment Endorsements: $1.25 million annually
• Annual Retention Bonus: $1 million every January 31st
Performance-Based Incentives
Day’s contract also includes a series of performance-based bonuses tied to Ohio State’s success on the field. These incentives reward accomplishments in the Big Ten Conference, the College Football Playoff (CFP), and academic performance.
Big Ten Bonuses
• $50,000 for reaching the Big Ten Championship Game
• $250,000 for winning the conference title
College Football Playoff Bonuses
• $100,000 for making the first round
• $250,000 for advancing to the second round
• $300,000 for earning a first-round bye
• $350,000 for reaching the semifinals
• $500,000 for making the national championship game
• $1,000,000 for winning the CFP title
Coaching and Academic Achievements
• $50,000 for winning Big Ten Coach of the Year
• $100,000 for being named National Coach of the Year
• Up to $150,000 for team GPA achievements
Additionally, if Day remains Ohio State’s head coach through January 31, 2027, he will receive a $250,000 retention bonus.
Buyout Clauses and Perks
If Ohio State chooses to part ways with Day before the end of his contract, they will be required to pay him $11.5 million for each remaining year. However, Day is expected to make reasonable efforts to secure another coaching position if he is dismissed.
On the other hand, if Day decides to leave before January 31, 2026, he will owe the university $6 million. This buyout fee gradually decreases over time, dropping by $500,000 each year.
As part of the agreement, Day will receive exclusive perks, including:
• Game Tickets & Suite Access: Complimentary lower-bowl tickets for each home game, plus a suite for his family and guests
• Private Flights: 75 hours annually for recruiting and official Ohio State business, plus an additional 50 hours for personal use
• Basketball Tickets: Two complimentary seats for every home men’s basketball game
The Big Picture
Ohio State’s commitment to Ryan Day signals confidence in his leadership and vision for the program. With this long-term deal, the Buckeyes are reinforcing their dedication to championship contention while providing financial security and incentives for continued success. Now, the challenge for Day will be to deliver on these expectations and keep Ohio State among college football’s elite programs.
