Contract Gist: Ohio State’s Ryan Day Agrees $12.5million Contract Extension Through 2031 Following National Championship Victory.
Ohio State’s Ryan Day Agrees to Contract Extension Through 2031 Following National Championship Victory
Fresh off leading the Ohio State Buckeyes to a national championship, head coach Ryan Day has agreed in principle to a contract extension that will keep him in Columbus through 2031. The deal, pending approval from Ohio State’s Board of Trustees, will reportedly make Day one of the highest-paid coaches in college football, with an annual salary of $12.5 million.
A Reward for Championship Success
Day’s extension comes after he guided the Buckeyes to their first national title since 2014, silencing critics and cementing his place as one of the top coaches in the country. Under his leadership, Ohio State finished the 2024 season with a dominant performance in the College Football Playoff, showcasing both offensive firepower and defensive resilience.
Since taking over as head coach in 2019, Day has compiled an impressive 70-10 record, giving him an 87.5% winning percentage—the highest among active college football coaches. This success, coupled with his strong recruiting efforts and player development, made him a prime candidate for an extension.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue leading this program,” Day said in a statement. “Ohio State is home to me and my family, and I’m committed to building on our success and competing for championships year after year.”
Fending Off NFL Interest
Day’s extension also signals Ohio State’s commitment to keeping him away from NFL coaching opportunities. In recent years, his name has been linked to several professional teams, but he has consistently reiterated his dedication to the Buckeyes. The substantial salary increase in his new deal puts him just behind Georgia’s Kirby Smart in terms of college football’s highest-paid coaches, ensuring that Ohio State remains an attractive long-term destination for him.
Investing in the Future
Alongside his coaching duties, Day has also shown his commitment to Ohio State’s broader mission. As part of his new agreement, he has pledged a $1 million donation to Ohio State’s Medical Center to support mental health initiatives.
“I believe in the importance of mental health support for student-athletes and the broader Ohio State community,” Day said. “It’s something that needs continued attention, and I’m proud to contribute to that effort.”
What’s Next for Ohio State?
With Day’s future secured, the Buckeyes now turn their focus to preparing for the 2025 season. Spring practices are already underway, and Ohio State is expected to be a strong national title contender once again, bolstered by top-tier recruiting classes and returning talent.
Day’s extension ensures stability at the helm of one of college football’s premier programs. Now, with a championship-winning coach locked in for the long haul, Ohio State fans can look forward to continued success on the field.
