Columbus, OH – May 12, 2025 — In a major vote of confidence from the Ohio State University, head football coach Ryan Day has agreed in principle to a contract extension that will keep him in Columbus through the 2031 season. The deal follows a historic 2024 campaign in which Day guided the Buckeyes to their first national championship in over a decade.
The extension, reportedly valued at $87.5 million, places Day among the highest-paid coaches in college football, a status many feel he has earned after reestablishing the Buckeyes as the dominant force in the NCAA.
“Coach Day’s leadership, integrity, and vision have shaped our football program into one of the nation’s elite,” said Ohio State Athletic Director Gene Smith in a statement. “This extension ensures that our program remains on a championship trajectory.”
Day, 46, took over as Ohio State’s head coach in 2019 following the retirement of Urban Meyer. Since then, he has compiled an impressive record and maintained a consistent presence in the College Football Playoff conversation. But it was the 2024 season — capped off by a 34–23 victory over Notre Dame in the national title game — that silenced critics and cemented his legacy.
“This university and its fans mean everything to me,” said Day. “I’m honored and humbled to continue leading this program, and I’m even more excited for what’s ahead. The goal remains the same: compete for championships every year.”
Day’s extension comes at a time when NFL franchises have reportedly expressed interest in his services, particularly following his player development success and pro-style offensive schemes. Despite the allure of the professional ranks, Day has remained committed to the Buckeyes.
The program is now focused on the upcoming 2025 season, which opens with a marquee showdown against Texas. With a new quarterback battle on the horizon and a fresh recruiting class on deck, Day will be expected to maintain the high standard he has set.
Ohio State fans can breathe easy for now — their national championship-winning coach isn’t going anywhere.
