Ohio State University has announced a significant contract extension for head football coach Ryan Day, locking him in through 2031. This new deal, which sees Day earning $12.5 million annually, reflects the university’s commitment to keeping one of college football’s top coaches at the helm of its powerhouse program.
Day, who took over as Ohio State’s head coach in 2018 following Urban Meyer’s retirement, has quickly established himself as one of the premier figures in college football. Under his leadership, the Buckeyes have consistently remained one of the most competitive teams in the nation, highlighted by multiple Big Ten Championships and College Football Playoff berths. His tenure has been marked by an explosive offense, a focus on player development, and a culture of excellence that has made Ohio State a perennial title contender.
The new contract extension solidifies Day’s place in Columbus for the long term. It comes amid a period of heightened expectations, with the Buckeyes consistently ranked among the top teams in the country and Day’s ability to recruit elite talent being a key factor in the program’s continued success. The $12.5 million annual salary places him among the highest-paid coaches in college football, reflecting both his current success and the future potential of Ohio State under his guidance.
In addition to his impressive record on the field, Day has also excelled at navigating the changing landscape of college football, particularly with the advent of the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era. His ability to maintain Ohio State’s position as a top-tier program amidst these changes has been a testament to his leadership, adaptability, and vision for the program.
Ohio State’s administration has expressed strong confidence in Day’s leadership, praising his work both as a coach and as a mentor to his players. The university’s athletic director, Gene Smith, remarked that this extension is a reflection of the high regard in which Day is held, emphasizing that the program is poised to continue its national prominence under his direction.
Day’s new contract is a clear indication of Ohio State’s long-term strategy to remain a dominant force in college football. With this deal in place, Day will continue to lead one of the most storied programs in the sport, aiming for national championships and sustained success in the years ahead.