Following a dynamic offseason, the Ohio State Buckeyes have finalized their coaching staff. Head coach Ryan Day recently announced the promotion of James Laurinaitis, previously a graduate assistant, to the position of linebackers coach. This move comes alongside the appointment of former UCLA Bruins head coach Chip Kelly as the offensive coordinator, succeeding Bill O’Brien, who departed for the head coaching role at Boston College.
Expressing satisfaction with the completed coaching staff, Day emphasized the importance of annually evaluating and adjusting areas within the team and staff. He highlighted the collaboration with Kelly, noting their extensive history together. Day played for Kelly at New Hampshire and later coached under him with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers.
Day spoke positively about Kelly’s energy and their shared perspective, expressing excitement about having him on board. As for Laurinaitis, despite having just one season as a graduate assistant, Day decided to promote him based on his strong performance and deep connection with Ohio State.
Lauding Laurinaitis’s understanding and passion for Ohio State, Day highlighted his credibility with players and recruits, stemming from his successful playing career in college and the NFL. Day commended Laurinaitis’s seamless transition from player to coach, leveraging his experiences to benefit the team. The coaching staff, led by Day and his newly assembled team, is set to commence the 2024 season on August 31 against the Akron Zips.