Ryan Day and the Buckeyes will have big shoes to fill this offseason with the departure of Brian Hartline. Hartline, who spent the last 8 seasons in Columbus, will be leaving the team at the end of the season to fulfill his duties as Head Coach of the University of South Florida. The Buckeyes will look to find a new Wide Receiver Coach and offensive coordinator as Hartline assumed both roles. Many candidates are expected to be interested in these jobs; with that being said, let’s take a look at some of those potential candidates.
The recently fired New York Giants Head Coach brings a wealth of football knowledge and experience. In addition to coaching the Giants, Daboll spent time in college under Nick Saban at Alabama. Daboll is an experienced play-caller and has coached at both the college and NFL levels. If hired, Daboll’s fit with this Buckeyes offense could be a recipe for success in 2026.
JT Barrett quickly got involved in the world of coaching after his retirement from the NFL. The former Buckeyes quarterback was recently hired by the Chicago Bears in the Quarterbacks Coach role. Barrett previously served as an assistant for the Detroit Lions for 3 seasons. Barrett’s experience in the NFL would make him a viable option for the open position at Ohio State.
Keenen Bailey got his start in coaching at his alma mater, Notre Dame in 2014. After spending some time with the Fighting Irish, he joined the Buckeyes staff as an offensive intern. Bailey has soared through the ranks and held many positions in his 8 seasons with the Buckeyes, most recently serving as the tight ends Coach and assistant offensive coordinator. Bailey has played a big role in the offense this season and could be another viable option at offensive coordinator.
Devin Jordan should be the clear-cut favorite for the promotion, having spent time under Brian Hartline as his assistant since 2022. Jordan has been involved with recruiting for a couple of years now and could be exactly what the Buckeyes need to continue the Wide Receiver University pipeline.
Santonio Holmes is in his first season as a coach with Central State University. The Former Super Bowl MVP played 9 seasons in the NFL and 3 seasons for Ohio State from 2003-2005. Holmes brings a wealth of football knowledge and experience, and his alma mater would be the perfect place to continue his coaching career.
Cody Croy
Writer
Baylor transfer kicker Connor Hawkins has signed with Ohio State, according to Rivals insider Hayes Fawcett. He will have 3 seasons of eligibility remaining. Hawkins took to social media after his commitment, posting “Let’s roll!!” On X. After some uncertainty regarding the kicking situation, the Buckeyes finally have their guy. Hawkins played two seasons for […]
Bryson Blue
Writer
After almost a week of anticipation, the star quarterback of the Oregon Ducks, Dante Moore, has made his decision on his future.
Cody Croy
Writer
Northwestern transfer tight end Hunter Welcing has signed with Ohio State. The Illinois native will have one season of eligibility remaining. He is a former 3-star recruit in the class of 2020. Welcing, who will be gearing up for his sixth season of college football, spent five of them with the Northwestern Wildcats. Battling injury, […]
