After winning his first national championship, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has received a seven-year extension from Ohio State.
With his new contract, Day will be the head coach of the Buckeyes through 2031 – an additional three years than his previous deal gave him – with a contract worth $12.5 million in annual compensation, which starts at a base salary of $2 million per year.
The terms have not yet been approved by the OSU board of trustees but is expected to be.
“Ohio State Football has long been defined by excellence and, under Ryan Day’s leadership, that tradition has not only continued, but thrived,” athletic director Ross Bjork said in a statement. “As a leader, mentor and coach, Ryan has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the success and well-being of our players, both on and off the field. His leadership has maintained our position of national prominence each year and winning the 2024 national championship validated his program’s culture of excellence, integrity, and perseverance.
“Ryan has not only kept Buckeye football as the preeminent program, but he also guides young men into leaders, instilling values that extend far beyond the game. Stability at the head coaching position is crucial in today’s evolving college football landscape, and this new contract guarantees continued momentum in recruiting, player development, and overall program success.
“It is a great pleasure to work side by side with Ryan and we know that his vision and leadership will continue to bring championship success and pride to our program for years to come.”
Just over two months removed from his fourth straight loss to Michigan and fans calling for his job, Day has secured a spot with the Buckeyes for much longer after proving himself through the first-ever 12-team playoff by beating Tennessee, Oregon, Texas and Notre Dame along the way, each by double-digits.
He will go into the 2025 season with a new offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator and offensive line coach, along with most of his starters needing replaced.
“I want to thank President Ted Carter, Director of Athletics Ross Bjork and the Board of Trustees for the confidence and trust they have in me to oversee this program,” Day said in a statement. “My family and I are incredibly grateful to be a part of the Ohio State community, this football program and Buckeye Nation.
“I want to thank my assistant coaches and the entire staff for the tireless effort they put in to keep Ohio State positioned as one of the elite programs in the country … on and off the field.
“And I especially want to thank and commend all the young men, and their families, who are a part of this football program. This is a team of tough and determined individuals who drive our culture of respect, commitment and love.”
