Ryan Day with new Eleven-year, $300.5 million contract for national champion coach that makes him the highest-paid in college  football was…

Ryan Day with new Eleven-year, $300.5 million contract for national champion coach that makes him the highest-paid in college  football was…

 

Ryan Day, the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, has recently secured a significant contract extension, underscoring his pivotal role in the team’s success. The new agreement, valued at $12.5 million annually, extends his tenure through the 2031 season.

 

Background and Career Highlights

 

Since taking over as head coach in 2019, Ryan Day has transformed the Ohio State football program. Under his leadership, the Buckeyes have achieved a remarkable 70-10 record, reflecting a winning percentage of .875, the best in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) during this period.

 

In January 2025, Day led Ohio State to its first national championship since 2014, securing a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame. This triumph not only solidified his reputation among Ohio State’s legendary coaches but also marked a significant milestone in the program’s history. citeturn0news18

 

Contract Details

 

The new seven-year contract extension, pending approval from the Ohio State University Board of Trustees, includes:

 

– Base Salary: $2 million per year.

 

– Total Annual Compensation: $12.5 million, positioning Day as the second-highest-paid head coach in college football, just behind Georgia’s Kirby Smart, who earns $13.28 million annually. citeturn0search5

 

– Performance Bonuses: The contract outlines various incentives, including:

 

– $50,000 for a team GPA of 3.0 or higher, with incremental increases for higher GPAs.

 

– $50,000 for a Big Ten Championship Game appearance, escalating to $250,000 for a win.

 

– $100,000 for a College Football Playoff appearance, with additional bonuses for advancing to later rounds, culminating in $1 million for a national championship victory.

 

– Buyout Clauses: The contract includes provisions for both the university and Day regarding potential termination without cause, with specific buyout amounts outlined.

 

Impact and Significance

 

This contract extension reflects Ohio State’s commitment to maintaining stability and excellence within its football program. Athletic Director Ross Bjork emphasized Day’s unwavering dedication to the success and well-being of the players, both on and off the field, and his role in sustaining the program’s national prominence.

 

For Day, the extension not only provides financial security but also reinforces the trust and confidence the university has in his leadership. His focus on player development, academic achievement, and community engagement aligns with Ohio State’s values and aspirations.

 

Philanthropic Efforts

 

 

Beyond his coaching responsibilities, Ryan Day is known for his advocacy in mental health awareness. He and his wife, Nina, have been involved in initiatives supporting mental health programs, including a significant donation to The Ohio State University Medical Center. citeturn0search7

 

Conclusion

 

Ryan Day’s new contract extension underscores his integral role in Ohio State’s football program and his broader contributions to the university community. As he continues to lead the Buckeyes, the combination of his coaching acumen, commitment to player development, and philanthropic endeavors positions him as a central figure in collegiate athletics.