Eric Boggs
The Ohio State Buckeyes are set to bid farewell to offensive line coach Justin Frye, who is departing to assume the same role with the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals. Frye’s tenure in Columbus, which began in 2022, has been marked by significant contributions to the team’s offensive front. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the development of standout tackles such as Paris Johnson Jr., a first-round selection by the Cardinals in 2023, and Dawand Jones, who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns. Under Frye’s guidance, the offensive line was instrumental in propelling the Buckeyes to a national championship, even as they navigated injuries to key players like Josh Simmons and Seth McLaughlin.
Frye’s departure marks the second significant coaching change for Ohio State this offseason, following defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ move to Penn State.
As the Buckeyes look to fill the void left by Frye, several potential candidates have emerged. One notable possibility is the return of former offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, who previously contributed to coaching the offensive line before accepting the head coaching position at Tulsa. Wilson’s familiarity with the program and his prior experience with the offensive line make him a compelling option.
Another candidate to consider is Joe Rudolph, currently serving as the offensive line coach for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Rudolph brings a wealth of experience, having previously held positions as the run game coordinator and offensive line coach at Virginia Tech. His extensive background in developing offensive line talent could prove invaluable for the Buckeyes as they aim to maintain their high standards in offensive performance.
As the Buckeyes embark on the search for a new offensive line coach, the focus will be on identifying a candidate who can uphold and build upon the strong foundation established in recent years. The program’s commitment to excellence remains unwavering, and the forthcoming appointment will be pivotal in sustaining Ohio State’s esteemed football legacy.
