Former Ohio State Buckeyes Star Takes Major Step Forward in Football Journey With First-Ever College Coaching Position Opportunity
In the world of college football, the road from celebrated player to influential coach is one that many dream of walking, but only a select few truly get to travel. For one former Ohio State standout, that dream has now become a reality. The former Buckeye, who once thrilled fans with his on-field heroics and embodied the spirit of the scarlet and gray, has officially taken the next step in his football journey—landing his first college coaching position and entering the ranks of those who shape, mentor, and build the next generation of football talent.
While countless former college stars choose to hang up their cleats and walk away from the game entirely, some find they cannot resist the call of the sideline. The competitive fire, the thrill of gameday, the strategic battles, and most importantly, the chance to influence and guide young athletes—these are the things that draw players back into the game. And for this former Ohio State player, whose legacy remains etched into Buckeye lore, coaching represents not just a career shift, but a continuation of a life deeply intertwined with football.
At Ohio State, he earned the admiration of coaches, teammates, and fans alike. Known for his fierce work ethic, high football IQ, and unwavering team-first attitude, he was never just another player on the roster. Whether making clutch plays in critical moments or setting the tone in the locker room with quiet leadership, he left a mark that went well beyond the stat sheet. Ohio State fans remember him not just for what he did on the field, but for how he carried himself off it—with class, humility, and a passion for excellence.
Now, he brings all of that—and more—into his new role on the college sidelines. His hiring has generated buzz not only because of his name recognition and pedigree but because of what he represents: a bridge between today’s players and the tradition-rich past of college football’s elite programs. Young athletes will have the chance to learn from someone who lived their dream, who wore the jersey with pride, and who understands the challenges they face better than anyone else. In an era where authenticity and relatability are paramount, few hires could resonate more powerfully.
The exact position he’s taking up is within the support and development structure of a major college program—an entry point that allows him to learn the nuances of coaching at the collegiate level while also imparting valuable insight from his playing days. It’s a role that comes with both opportunity and expectation. Coaching is a grind, often more demanding than playing, but it also offers the rare chance to leave a legacy in a different way: by helping others succeed. And for someone who’s always been about the team, that’s the perfect fit.
While the identity of the school he’s joining may come as a surprise to some—it’s not Ohio State—there’s little doubt that he will carry his Buckeye values into every practice, meeting, and film session. The culture he helped build in Columbus, the standard he upheld, and the championship-level mindset he embraced will now influence a new crop of athletes hungry to make their own mark on the game. Coaches talk often about “DNA hires”—people who live and breathe the values a program wants to instill. That’s exactly what this former star brings to his new gig.
His transition into coaching is also a testament to the long-lasting impact of his relationships within the sport. From head coaches to assistants, player development staff to trainers, the network he built during his time at Ohio State and in the years since has helped him find a path into the profession. Football is, at its heart, a relationship business. And when you build those bonds on trust, work ethic, and respect, they can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
It’s no secret that many former players struggle to find their footing once their playing careers end. The spotlight fades, the daily structure disappears, and the transition to “normal” life can be jarring. But for those who love the game, coaching offers a lifeline—a way to stay connected to the sport that gave them purpose, direction, and lifelong memories. This new coach is embracing that opportunity fully, with an eye toward one day rising through the ranks, perhaps even returning to his alma mater in a larger role. That journey starts now.
His presence on the sideline will be about more than just football. It will be about mentorship, about sharing hard-won wisdom, and about helping young athletes avoid the mistakes he might have made while embracing the lessons that fueled his success. There’s an old saying in coaching: players don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. This former Buckeye already has the “care” part down—and in time, he’ll prove that he’s got the coaching chops to match.
For Ohio State fans, seeing one of their own take this step is a point of pride. The Buckeyes are known not just for producing elite players, but for developing leaders—on and off the field. This move only reinforces that tradition. It’s also a reminder of the powerful bond that exists within the Ohio State football fraternity. Once a Buckeye, always a Buckeye. And while he’ll now wear different colors on the sidelines, there’s no question where his heart lies.
His former teammates have voiced their support across social media and behind the scenes, offering encouragement and advice as he embarks on this next chapter. Many of them know firsthand how difficult it can be to make that leap into coaching, and how rewarding it is when you start to see your influence pay off in the form of a more confident, capable, and driven athlete under your wing.
As he steps into his new role, the challenges will be plenty—long hours, recruiting pressures, limited budgets, and the steep learning curve that all first-time coaches face. But there’s no doubt that he’s ready. Because he’s already been through the fire. He’s played in the biggest games, handled the highest expectations, and represented one of the most demanding fanbases in college football. That kind of experience can’t be taught—it can only be lived. And now, he’ll use it to help others grow.
The hope among those close to him is that this is just the beginning. That this first job will lead to a full-blown coaching career, and that his natural leadership, paired with a relentless work ethic, will take him far in this new endeavor. Whether it’s coaching defensive backs, coordinating game plans, or someday leading a program of his own, the tools are all there. He’s already proven he can excel at the highest level of college football. Now, he just needs to prove he can teach others to do the same.
Football careers often follow winding, unpredictable paths. What matters is how you respond to the opportunities presented. For this former Ohio State star, the decision to step into coaching wasn’t about chasing fame or reliving past glory. It was about giving back to the game that shaped him, about using his voice and experience to make a difference, and about continuing to chase greatness in a whole new way.
As the new college football season draws nearer, all eyes will be on the field—but don’t be surprised if this former Buckeye starts turning heads on the sideline too. His playing days may be behind him, but his impact on the game is far from over. Coaching is the next chapter—and by all accounts, it’s shaping up to be a special one.
