Ryan Day, the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, inked a historic new contract extension that will keep him in the program through the 2031 season. We now have a better notion of what the Buckeyes will pay him going forward. Let’s take a look at Day’s massive extension.
Ryan Day’s $80M Buyout: A Dive into Ohio State’s High-Stakes Investment
The school stated last week that Ohio State head coach Ryan Day’s contract has been extended through the 2031 season, with a salary raise averaging $12.5 million per year. The move comes just weeks after Day’s Buckeyes claimed the 2024-25 College Football Playoff National Championship.
Day’s new contract is second only to Georgia’s Kirby Smart’s $13 million in average annual value among college football head coaches.
According to AAV, other top collegiate coaches are Clemson’s Dabo Swinney ($11.5 million), USC’s Lincoln Riley ($11 million), and Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer ($10.9 million).
The Financial Breakdown of Ryan Day’s Buyout
A buyout clause in a coaching contract provides a financial safety net for both the coach and the team. In Ryan Day’s case, this clause is extremely important and impacts his career and Ohio State’s financial commitment.
- Salary: $12.5 million
- College Buyout: $11.5 million/year remaining
- Coach’s Buyout: $6m until Jan. 31, 2026; $4m after Feb. 1, 2026; falls $500,000 in ensuing years
- Max Bonus: $1.55m
- Retention Bonus: $250K on Jan. 31, 2027
These figures, while unbelievable, reflect the fierce competition in college football, where large salaries ensure top-tier coaches stay in their jobs.
Ohio State’s Faith in Day
Following a fourth consecutive loss to Michigan less than two months ago, there was plenty of speculation about Day’s future with the Buckeyes. This loss stripped Ohio State of a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game, and the pressure on Day reached an all-time high.
Then, Day proved his doubters wrong by leading his team to glory after a victory in the College Football Playoff National Championship.
RELATED: Ohio State Head Coach Ryan Day’s Extension Signals Intent for Further Domination
This extension shows that Ohio State is investing in Day’s leadership for years to come. With his proven track record of major wins and conference supremacy, the college perceives him as the architect of long-term success.
Day’s deal and buyout conditions highlight the vast stakes of college football. With almost $80 million on the line, Ohio State has shown its commitment to long-term success under Day’s leadership.
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