**LATEST NEWS: “No, I’m Leaving” – Ohio State Buckeyes Head Coach Ryan Day Signs $350.5 Million Handshake Contract with NFL Franchise**
In a seismic development in the world of football, Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day has announced his departure to accept a monumental handshake contract worth $350.5 million with an undisclosed NFL team. The move comes as a shock to Buckeye Nation and the college football community, marking the end of an era at Ohio State while ushering in a new chapter for Day in professional football.
### **A Stunning Announcement**
Ryan Day’s departure was confirmed in a surprise press conference this morning. Known for his tactical brilliance and player-first philosophy, Day revealed that his decision to leave Ohio State was not taken lightly but was driven by an irresistible opportunity to compete at the highest level.
“This has been the toughest decision of my career,” Day said. “Ohio State is home, and it always will be. But the chance to lead an NFL team, with this level of trust and support, is a challenge I couldn’t pass up.”
The announcement comes on the heels of yet another successful season for Day, who led the Buckeyes to a College Football Playoff appearance and a Big Ten title.
### **The Handshake Contract**
The $350.5 million handshake contract is nothing short of groundbreaking. While handshake deals are rare in modern professional sports, they symbolize mutual respect and confidence between parties. This agreement, reportedly spanning eight years, includes guaranteed money, performance bonuses, and incentives tied to team success.
Though the NFL team involved has not been officially named, sources close to the negotiation suggest the deal reflects the organization’s faith in Day’s ability to build a winning culture at the professional level.
### **Ryan Day’s Ohio State Legacy**
Ryan Day’s tenure at Ohio State began in 2018 when he took over from Urban Meyer. In the years since, Day has become synonymous with success. His record at Ohio State includes multiple Big Ten titles, three College Football Playoff appearances, and a near-perfect winning percentage in conference play.
Day also distinguished himself as a quarterback whisperer, helping develop Justin Fields into a top NFL prospect and continuing the tradition with C.J. Stroud and others. His offensive schemes consistently ranked among the best in the nation, combining explosive scoring with disciplined execution.
His leadership extended beyond the field, as Day became a mentor to players and an advocate for mental health awareness, earning respect from fans and peers alike.
### **Reaction from Ohio State**
The reaction to Day’s departure has been a mix of shock, disappointment, and gratitude. Ohio State Athletic Director Gene Smith expressed admiration for Day’s contributions while acknowledging the difficulty of replacing him.
“Ryan Day has been an exceptional leader for our football program,” Smith said. “While we are saddened by his departure, we support his decision and wish him all the best in this next chapter of his career. The search for the next head coach of Ohio State football begins immediately.”
Players, many of whom were recruited and developed under Day, took to social media to share their emotions. Quarterback Kyle McCord posted, “Coach Day believed in me when no one else did. Wishing him success, but it’s tough to see him go.”
### **Why Now?**
Day’s decision to leave Ohio State for the NFL has raised questions about the timing. Insiders suggest that the allure of leading an NFL franchise, coupled with the financial security and professional challenge offered by the record-breaking deal, played a significant role.
“I’ve always wanted to coach at the highest level,” Day admitted. “I feel like this is the right moment to take that step.”
Another factor could be the growing pressures of college coaching, including recruiting in the NIL era and navigating an ever-changing landscape. For Day, the NFL represents a more straightforward environment where the focus shifts to game strategy and player development.
### **Which NFL Team?**
While the identity of the NFL franchise remains a mystery, speculation is rampant. Several teams with coaching vacancies or rumored discontent with their current leadership have emerged as possible destinations.
The Chicago Bears, whose history with former Buckeye Justin Fields creates a natural connection, are among the most frequently mentioned teams. Others point to the Carolina Panthers, a franchise eager to rebuild around its young talent, or even the Las Vegas Raiders, known for their willingness to make bold moves.
Day’s ability to adapt quickly and his reputation for developing quarterbacks make him an attractive candidate for any NFL team looking to revitalize its program.
### **Historic Paycheck**
The $350.5 million handshake contract sets a new benchmark for coaching salaries. It’s not only a testament to Day’s reputation but also indicative of the NFL’s escalating investment in leadership.
Sports economist Dr. Rachel Connor described the contract as “a turning point” for coaching compensation.
“Ryan Day’s deal reflects a growing recognition of the value elite coaches bring to the table,” she said. “This move could have ripple effects across both college and professional sports.”
### **What’s Next for Ohio State?**
Ohio State faces the daunting task of finding a successor capable of sustaining the program’s dominance. Potential candidates include established coaches like Luke Fickell (Wisconsin), Matt Campbell (Iowa State), or even Urban Meyer in a stunning return. Up-and-coming coordinators such as Georgia’s Glenn Schumann or Michigan’s Sherrone Moore could also be in the mix.
Recruiting stability will be a priority during this transitional period, as the Buckeyes aim to retain their incoming class and reassure current players. Gene Smith emphasized the importance of maintaining Ohio State’s culture of excellence.
“We are committed to finding a leader who embodies our values and builds on the incredible foundation Ryan Day has established,” Smith said.
### **Ryan Day’s NFL Prospects**
For Ryan Day, the move to the NFL represents a fresh challenge. While many college coaches struggle to adapt to the professional ranks, Day’s offensive acumen and experience with NFL-caliber talent position him for success.
Former Ohio State quarterback and current NFL player Justin Fields praised Day’s ability to connect with players.
“Coach Day is a master at bringing out the best in his team,” Fields said. “He knows how to lead and win. I think he’ll do great in the NFL.”
### **The End of an Era**
As Ryan Day prepares to embark on his NFL journey, Ohio State fans are left reflecting on an era of unprecedented success. Day’s impact on the program, both on and off the field, will be felt for years to come.
In his parting message, Day expressed his gratitude to the Ohio State community.
“Thank you to Buckeye Nation for your unwavering support. Coaching here has been the honor of my life, and I will always cherish the memories we’ve made together. The future is bright for Ohio State football, and I’ll be cheering from afar.”
### **A Bold New Chapter**
For Ryan Day and Ohio State, this marks the beginning of bold new chapters. As Day steps onto the NFL stage, his legacy in Columbus remains secure, defined by excellence, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
Ohio State, meanwhile, will aim to build on the foundation Day has laid, ensuring that the program remains a powerhouse in college football for generations to come.
