Eric Boggs
Ohio State will enter the 2025 season with two new coordinators after the departures of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. Kelly, who spent just one season in Columbus, is heading to the NFL to become the offensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders, according to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Pete Thamel. His departure marks the third major coaching exit this offseason, following Knowles’ move to Penn State and offensive line coach Justin Frye’s decision to join the Arizona Cardinals.
Kelly’s contract with the Raiders is reportedly worth an average of $6 million per year, a significant raise from the $2 million he made at Ohio State in 2024. He was set to make $2.1 million in 2025, though a salary increase seemed likely had he stayed. Per the terms of his contract, Kelly owes Ohio State a $350,000 buyout for departing for an NFL position.
Ryan Day knew when he hired Kelly last offseason that a return to the NFL was a possibility. In an interview with Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt, Day acknowledged that the two had discussed this scenario when Kelly was brought on board, but the priority was winning a national championship. That mission was accomplished, as Kelly led an offense that averaged 35.7 points per game—an improvement of over five points from 2023—and helped quarterback Will Howard complete a school-record 73% of his passes en route to a national title.
Now, for the third straight season, Ohio State will be searching for a new offensive coordinator. The Buckeyes initially promoted Brian Hartline to offensive coordinator in 2023 after Kevin Wilson left for Tulsa, but Hartline was not the primary play-caller. With Kelly’s departure, Day faces a crucial decision regarding the future of the offense, particularly as Ohio State will also have a first-time starting quarterback, a new offensive line coach, and a new defensive coordinator in 2025.
Fortunately, the opportunity to lead Ohio State’s offense should attract plenty of interest, given the program’s talent—headlined by superstar wide receiver Jeremiah Smith—and the prestige of coaching for a reigning national champion. Some familiar names could be among the top candidates to replace Kelly.
Kevin Wilson, who spent six seasons as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator before leaving for Tulsa, remains a logical choice. Wilson worked alongside Day from 2017 to 2022, helping the Buckeyes field one of the most consistent and explosive offenses in the country. While he wasn’t the primary play-caller, his experience and familiarity with the program make him an attractive option. Given that he is currently without a coaching job, Wilson could be an easy and beneficial addition.
Brian Hartline, the current co-offensive coordinator and elite recruiter, is another candidate. Promoting Hartline could help secure his long-term future with the Buckeyes, but the key question is whether Day is ready to entrust him with play-calling duties. One possible compromise could be elevating Hartline’s role in game planning while pairing him with a more experienced play-caller.
Jason Candle, the head coach at Toledo, was connected to Ohio State’s offensive coordinator search last year. A native of Salem, Ohio, Candle has spent his entire coaching career in the state and has built a strong offensive track record with the Rockets. While he has never coached at a Power Five school, his head coaching experience and offensive success in the MAC make him a viable candidate.
Joe Moorhead, currently the head coach at Akron, also has an extensive background as an offensive coordinator. He was highly regarded for his work at Penn State and Oregon and has Power Five head coaching experience from his tenure at Mississippi State. Given Akron’s struggles under his leadership, Moorhead may be interested in a return to a top offensive coordinator position.
Jeff Nixon, currently Syracuse’s offensive coordinator, has extensive NFL experience, which could appeal to Day given his preference for coaches with professional backgrounds. Nixon previously worked with Day on Chip Kelly’s 49ers staff in 2016 and helped former Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord thrive at Syracuse in 2024.
Will Stein, Oregon’s offensive coordinator, is another intriguing option. Stein led one of the nation’s most explosive offenses in 2024, including the only attack that truly tested Ohio State’s No. 1-ranked defense last season. While there is no confirmed mutual interest, his success at Oregon makes him a name worth monitoring.
Regardless of who replaces Kelly, this hire will be one of the most important of Day’s tenure. With a talented roster and championship aspirations, Ohio State needs an offensive coordinator who can sustain its high-powered attack and develop the next Buckeyes quarterback. The search is officially underway, and Buckeye Nation will be eagerly watching as Day makes his next move.
