The Transfer Portal window is officially closing, and Ohio State has just about wrapped up its work on that front. The Buckeyes are done losing players to the portal, and while they can still add anyone who entered before the deadline, most of their heavy lifting appears to be complete.
So far, it’s been a productive offseason in Columbus. Ohio State has addressed key roster needs, adding depth and talent across several positions.
They brought in a kicker, bolstered the defensive front with multiple additions, and added a couple of wide receivers to refresh the offensive arsenal. But while the portal moves have been solid, there’s still one major item sitting at the top of the Buckeyes’ offseason to-do list: hiring a new offensive coordinator.
Ever since Brian Hartline announced his departure to take the head coaching job at USF-just ahead of the Big Ten Championship-head coach Ryan Day has been weighing his options. But as of now, no hire has been made. That vacancy looms large, and how Day fills it could define the Buckeyes’ trajectory heading into 2026.
The OC Search: A Critical Decision for Ryan Day
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just another assistant hire. This is a pivotal moment for Ryan Day and the program.
After a season that fell short of expectations, and with Michigan continuing to be a thorn in the Buckeyes’ side, the pressure is on. Ohio State needs a dynamic offensive mind who can take over play-calling duties and allow Day to step into a more CEO-style role-something that worked well in 2024 when the Buckeyes captured the national title.
There’s been plenty of buzz around potential candidates, including names with NFL ties. From established pros like Brian Daboll to intriguing younger options like J.T.
Barrett, the rumor mill has been in full swing. But Day hasn’t pulled the trigger yet, and that delay may not be just indecision-it could be strategic.
One possibility? His top choice is still coaching in the NFL playoffs.
That would explain the wait, as Day might be holding out for a coach who’s currently unavailable due to postseason commitments. Another plausible scenario is that he’s waiting for the NFL coaching carousel to settle before making his move-gauging who’s staying, who’s moving, and who might be open to a new opportunity in college football.
Why This Hire Matters So Much
Ohio State’s offense has been elite under Day, but there’s a growing sense that he needs to relinquish some control to maximize the team’s potential. The pressure to deliver another championship is real, and in today’s college football landscape-where NIL, the portal, and playoff expansion are changing the game-coaches have to wear more hats than ever.
That’s why this offensive coordinator hire isn’t just about play design or third-down efficiency. It’s about setting the tone for the next era of Buckeye football.
The right hire can modernize the offense, develop the next wave of talent, and free Day up to manage the program at a higher level. The wrong one?
It could stall momentum at a time when Ohio State can’t afford to fall behind.
So while the portal work is mostly done and the roster looks strong on paper, the Buckeyes still have a major decision ahead. If they get it right, they’ll be in prime position to make another title run. But the clock’s ticking-and all eyes are on Ryan Day to deliver.