When the Eagles and Chiefs clash this Sunday for the ultimate prize in football, it’ll mark a full month since the Buckeyes celebrated their own championship victory in college football. But while the Buckeyes basked in glory, the reality of success has brought its own set of challenges.
Changes on the Horizon for Ohio State
The Ohio State Buckeyes are in the midst of a significant transition as they prepare for the 2025 college football season. Head coach Ryan Day is actively seeking three new assistant coaches to fill the gaps left by recent departures. It’s a tough spot for a program that has been a powerhouse in college football, but change is often necessary for growth.
Key Departures Impacting the Team
The Buckeyes are bracing for some major changes, with several key players set to leave for the 2025 NFL Draft. Stars like Jack Sawyer, Will Howard, Quinshon Judkins, and TreVeyon Henderson will be taking their talents to the professional level, leaving a void that will need to be filled. This is not just about losing talent; it’s about the experience and leadership that these players brought to the team.
Adding to the challenges, Day has seen three of his assistant coaches depart this offseason. Among them is the offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, who has decided to make the leap to the NFL. He’s joining Pete Carroll’s staff with the Las Vegas Raiders, a move that speaks volumes about the allure of professional football.
Chip Kelly’s Move to the NFL
Chip Kelly’s departure is significant. His new deal with the Raiders reportedly averages a staggering $6 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid coordinators in the NFL. This figure is particularly striking considering it surpasses the salaries of many college football head coaches. It raises an important question: What does this mean for college football programs trying to retain their top talent?
The Raiders made it clear during their search that they were ready to invest heavily in their coaching staff. Kelly’s move is a testament to that commitment, and it underscores the competitive nature of coaching at both the college and professional levels. As Breer noted, the Raiders are making a serious financial commitment to their new hires, and Kelly is reaping the rewards.
Other Notable Departures
Ohio State has also bid farewell to former defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, who is heading to the Penn State Nittany Lions. Additionally, former offensive line coach Justin Frye has accepted a similar position with the Arizona Cardinals. These departures signify a broader trend in college football, where top coaches are often lured to the NFL with lucrative contracts and the promise of competing at the highest level.
Retaining Talent Amidst Transition
Despite the upheaval, there is a silver lining for Ohio State. The program boasts a wealth of talented players who are eager to showcase their skills under a new offensive coordinator. The challenge for Day will be to maintain the momentum of the Buckeyes while integrating new coaching philosophies and strategies.
How can Ohio State keep its stars, like Jeremiah Smith, from exploring the transfer portal? With other elite programs making aggressive pushes for top talent, it’s crucial for the Buckeyes to create an environment where players feel valued and excited about their future. Retaining key players will be essential for maintaining the program’s competitive edge.
The Road Ahead
As Ohio State navigates this transition, the focus will be on building a cohesive team that can compete at the highest levels. The recruitment of new assistant coaches will be pivotal in shaping the future of the program. The Buckeyes have a rich history and a passionate fan base, and they will be looking to bounce back stronger than ever.
In the world of college football, change is inevitable. Teams must adapt to the ever-shifting landscape, and Ohio State is no exception. With a strong foundation of talent and a commitment to excellence, the Buckeyes are poised to tackle the challenges ahead.
As fans eagerly await the kickoff of the NFL season, they can also look forward to what lies ahead for college football. The Buckeyes have proven time and again that they can rise to the occasion, and this offseason will be no different. With the right leadership and a focus on player development, Ohio State is ready to take on the future with enthusiasm and determination.
The excitement surrounding college football is palpable, and as the Buckeyes prepare for the upcoming season, they have the opportunity to redefine their legacy. Will they emerge from this transition stronger than ever? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Buckeye Nation will be cheering them on every step of the way.
