ESPN REPORT: Ryan Day Shocks College Football World, Rejects Massive $20.5 Million Offer from Tennessee and Notre Dame to Stay at Ohio State: “I Have No Plans Beyond Being the Ohio State Football Coach”
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has reportedly rejected a combined $20.5 million offer from two powerhouse programs — Tennessee and Notre Dame — to remain with the Buckeyes.
According to an ESPN report released Monday, both schools aggressively pursued Day in recent weeks, offering him a lucrative package that would have made him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football history. Sources say Tennessee offered $11 million annually, while Notre Dame was prepared to match with a deal worth $9.5 million per year. The offers came after both programs privately expressed growing frustration with recent coaching performance and saw Day as a transformative figure capable of elevating their national title hopes.
However, Day made it clear he’s not going anywhere.
“I have no plans beyond being the Ohio State football coach,” Day said in a statement obtained by ESPN. “This program means everything to me. We have unfinished business here in Columbus.”
Day, who has led the Buckeyes since 2019, has compiled an impressive 56-8 record and taken the team to multiple College Football Playoff appearances. Under his leadership, Ohio State has remained a perennial title contender, consistently dominating the Big Ten and developing elite NFL-caliber talent.
Despite falling short of the national championship in recent seasons and facing growing pressure from fans following losses to Michigan, Day’s loyalty to Ohio State appears unshaken. Insiders suggest that Day met with university officials last week to reaffirm his long-term commitment to the program. The university, in turn, is expected to begin discussions on restructuring his current contract to reflect his market value while ensuring program stability.
The news comes at a time when the college football coaching carousel is spinning faster than ever. With NIL money reshaping program dynamics and media deals boosting revenue, top-tier coaches are increasingly targeted by rival schools seeking quick turnarounds. Day’s decision to stay put bucks that trend and signals a powerful message about continuity and culture.
Fans across Buckeye Nation have reacted with overwhelming support on social media, praising Day’s loyalty and leadership.
Tennessee and Notre Dame, meanwhile, will return to their coaching searches with two massive checks still unsigned.
Ryan Day’s declaration is simple, yet significant: his heart is in Columbus, and he’s not done yet.
How do you feel about Ryan Day’s decision to stay with the Buckeyes?