Eric Boggs
Ohio State continues to reinforce its coaching staff with proven talent, adding former Buckeye and longtime NFL safety Nate Ebner as a special teams quality control coach. An Ohio State spokesperson confirmed Ebner’s appointment, and he was already on the field contributing during the Buckeyes’ first spring practice. A former walk-on who built an impressive 10-year NFL career, Ebner joins a staff that also includes his former New England Patriots defensive coordinator, Matt Patricia.
Head coach Ryan Day emphasized the value Ebner brings to the program, citing his ability to influence both the safety group and special teams. “This is a guy who was really self-made and turned out to have a great career in the NFL,” Day said. “He’s somebody now making the transition from player to coach, and it’s great to have him around.”
Ebner is just one of several additions to Ohio State’s growing support staff, as the Buckeyes have welcomed 10 new hires this offseason. Among them is Billy Yates, another former NFL player, who joins the program as a defensive quality control coach. Yates, who played in the NFL from 2003 to 2010, previously worked alongside Patricia with both the Patriots and Detroit Lions. His coaching experience includes stints at Texas A&M, Bowling Green, and most recently, as an assistant offensive line coach for the Patriots.
The influx of NFL experience is a clear priority for Day, who now has seven former NFL players on his staff. Yates and Ebner join a group that already includes offensive coordinator Brian Hartline, linebackers coach James Laurinaitis, assistant secondary coach Michael Hunter, assistant offensive line coach Marcus Johnson, and defensive program assistant Tony Washington Jr. Additionally, six former Ohio State players now hold coaching roles, reinforcing the program’s strong culture and tradition.
“I think it just builds culture,” Day said. “Guys understand what it means. There’s experience, especially from those who have walked in these shoes before. Ohio State is unlike any other place, and having coaches who have played here and succeeded at the next level brings credibility and invaluable mentorship.”
The complete list of new additions includes Charlie Dickey (offensive program assistant), Austin Fields (offensive quality control), Taver Johnson (defensive quality control), Colin Keanu (offensive program assistant), Wendy Laurent (assistant tight ends coach), and Miguel Patrick (defensive quality control). This expanded staff blends experience, familiarity with the Buckeye program, and NFL pedigree—creating an environment primed for success.
Ohio State’s commitment to surrounding its players with former Buckeyes and seasoned professionals speaks to its dedication to excellence. With a coaching staff full of Ohio State alumni and former NFL standouts, the Buckeyes are in prime position to develop the next generation of elite talent both on and off the field.
