Following their recent national championship victory, the Ohio State Buckeyes are experiencing significant changes within their coaching staff as multiple coaches transition to the NFL.
Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has accepted the same position with the Las Vegas Raiders. Kelly, who joined Ohio State prior to the 2024 season, was instrumental in revitalizing the Buckeyes’ offense, leading them to average 35.7 points per game, up from 30.5 points the previous year. His departure marks a return to the NFL, where he previously served as head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers.
In addition to Kelly, offensive line coach Justin Frye is departing to join the Arizona Cardinals in the same capacity. Frye, who has been with Ohio State since 2022, played a pivotal role in developing NFL-caliber talent on the offensive line. His tenure was marked by adaptability, managing numerous offensive line combinations due to injuries, and contributing to the team’s championship run.
These departures follow the earlier exit of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, who left to assume the same role at Penn State. The Buckeyes are now tasked with filling these critical positions as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Head coach Ryan Day has addressed speculation regarding his own potential move to the NFL. While acknowledging his previous NFL experience and not ruling out a future transition, Day emphasized his current commitment to Ohio State. He expressed a desire to continue impacting young athletes at the collegiate level and aims to join Woody Hayes as the only Ohio State coaches to win multiple national championships.
In response to these coaching vacancies, reports indicate that Ohio State is promoting Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator. Hartline, a former Buckeyes wide receiver and assistant coach since 2017, has been instrumental in developing one of the nation’s top receiving corps. His promotion is expected to provide continuity and maintain the offensive momentum established during the championship season.
The Buckeyes are also expected to promote Billy Fessler from analyst to quarterbacks coach and hire Tyler Bowen from Virginia Tech as the offensive line coach and run game coordinator, replacing Frye.
As Ohio State navigates these transitions, the program remains focused on sustaining its recent success. The upcoming season will test the resilience and adaptability of the Buckeyes as they integrate new coaching personnel and strive to defend their national title.
