Eric Boggs
In the world of sports, the bond between mentors and young athletes can leave an indelible mark on their lives. For RJ Day, son of Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, that bond was forged with the late Dwayne Haskins—a relationship that continues to shape his football journey.
RJ recently shared a heartfelt story about Haskins in an interview with John McCallister, shedding light on the deep impact the former Ohio State quarterback had on him. When asked who he would choose to spend one full day with, RJ’s response was immediate: Dwayne Haskins.
“I didn’t really get to say goodbye to Dwayne before he passed, so I would say Dwayne Haskins just to put that to rest because that still hangs with me a little bit,” RJ said.
The story that followed was one of mentorship and inspiration. Haskins, despite being a rising star at Ohio State, made time for young RJ. On Friday nights, he would pick up RJ and take him to high school football games, spending time with him and fostering his love for the game.
“He was a really big role model for me because he was such a genuine human being,” RJ said. “All the guys loved him in the locker room.”
That kind of selflessness and leadership defines a player beyond the stats and accolades. Haskins, who tragically passed away in April 2022, left a lasting legacy—not only as one of Ohio State’s most prolific passers but also as a compassionate mentor who recognized the value of lifting others up.
RJ, now an up-and-coming quarterback himself at DeSales High School in Columbus, continues to develop his own path in football. While he’s not yet a five-star recruit, his potential as a Division I quarterback is evident. He has two more years to refine his game, competing both in Ohio and with a South Florida 7-on-7 team, giving him opportunities to elevate his skill set.
But beyond the X’s and O’s, what makes RJ’s journey compelling is the way Haskins’ influence still resonates in his life. The possibility of RJ one day donning an Ohio State uniform, playing for his father, and potentially leading the Buckeyes in the same stadium where Haskins made history, is a dream scenario for Buckeye Nation. Some have even speculated on the powerful symbolism if RJ were to wear Haskins’ iconic No. 7 in tribute.
While the future is unwritten, one thing remains clear: Dwayne Haskins’ impact reaches far beyond his time on the field. His kindness, leadership, and generosity live on through RJ Day, ensuring that his legacy will not be forgotten.
For Ohio State fans, this story is a reminder that football is about more than just wins and losses—it’s about the relationships, the lessons, and the lasting impressions players leave behind. And for RJ, the lessons from Haskins will continue to guide him, no matter where his football journey takes him next.
