Just a few weeks removed from Ohio State’s national championship victory over Notre Dame, Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day is getting a big pay raise. Following a triumphant season that culminated in a national title, the university has decided to reward Day with a new contract extension, despite the team facing a fourth consecutive loss to rival Michigan. This decision reflects a strong belief in Day’s leadership and vision for the future of the program.
Ryan Day’s contract details
Day’s new contract with Ohio State is a seven-year deal that elevates his annual salary to $12.5 million. This new agreement extends his tenure through the 2031 season, adding three additional years to his previous contract. The financial commitment from Ohio State signifies their confidence in Day’s ability to lead the Buckeyes to continued success.
When Day first took the reins as Ohio State’s head coach in 2018, he started with an annual salary of $4.5 million, which increased over the years. In May 2022, he signed a seven-year extension worth nearly $10 million per year, following a College Football Playoff berth. This latest contract is a significant upgrade, showcasing the university’s commitment to retaining top talent in the coaching ranks.
Who are the highest-paid coaches in college football?
With his new annual salary, Day now ranks among the elite in college football coaching salaries. He stands just behind Georgia’s Kirby Smart, who earns approximately $13 million a year. Day’s new deal places him ahead of notable coaches such as Clemson’s Dabo Swinney, Texas’ Steve Sarkisian, and USC’s Lincoln Riley.
Here’s a look at the highest-paid college coaches, reflecting Day’s new deal:
- Kirby Smart, Georgia: **$13.28 million** annually
- Ryan Day, Ohio State: **$12.5 million** annually
- Dabo Swinney, Clemson: **$11.13 million** annually
- Lincoln Riley, USC: **$10.04 million** annually
- Steve Sarkisian, Texas: **$10.03 million** annually
- Mike Norvell, Florida State: **$10 million** annually
- Kalen DeBoer, Alabama: **$10 million** annually
- Brian Kelly, LSU: **$9.975 million** annually
- Mark Stoops, Kentucky: **$9.013 million** annually
- Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss: **$9 million** annually
This new financial commitment not only reflects Day’s success but also the competitive landscape of college football, where securing top coaching talent is vital for program success.
Looking ahead: Challenges and opportunities
While the future looks bright for Ohio State, the upcoming 2025 season may present some challenges. The Buckeyes will need to rebuild after losing key players like quarterback Will Howard, running back Quinshon Judkins, and defensive standouts Jack Sawyer and J.T. Tuimoloau. Additionally, Day faces the task of replacing both his offensive and defensive coordinators. Offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has departed for the NFL, joining the Raiders, while defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has taken a position at Penn State.
Despite these challenges, there’s a sense of optimism in Columbus. The Buckeyes are expected to start former 5-star quarterback transfer Julian Sayin, who joined the program from Alabama last season. Furthermore, Day has successfully recruited the No. 5 recruiting class for the 2025 cycle, indicating a strong influx of talent that could help the team remain competitive.
Renewed faith in Ryan Day
The confidence in Day is palpable, especially after the success of the recent national championship season. He has been credited with orchestrating a remarkable turnaround for the Buckeyes, particularly following a tough 13-10 home loss to Michigan. His ability to motivate and inspire his players has been a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy.
"They’re my motivation," Day said, reflecting on his players after clinching the national title. "My family at home, my wife and kids, and then these guys. That’s why I get up in the morning every day—to ensure these guys reach their dreams and goals. When things get hard in life, you just keep swinging as hard as you can; you fight. That’s our culture."
As Ohio State prepares to open the 2025 season with a home game against the Texas Longhorns, the excitement is building. Fans are eager to see how Day will navigate the challenges ahead while continuing to build on the success of the past season. With a strong recruiting class and a talented roster, the Buckeyes are poised for another thrilling year of college football.
In the world of college football, where every season brings new challenges and opportunities, Ryan Day’s leadership will be crucial as Ohio State aims for continued excellence on the field. The future is bright, and the Buckeyes are ready to rise to the occasion!
