Trouble in Columbus: Ryan Day’s $2M Raise Sparks Rumors as OC Brian Hartline Reportedly Weighs Exit from Ohio State…

Columbus, OH – July 6, 2025 — Tensions may be rising inside the Woody Hayes Athletic Center as Ohio State head coach Ryan Day’s recent $2 million raise is reportedly causing waves within the Buckeyes’ coaching staff — with newly promoted offensive coordinator Brian Hartline rumored to be considering a surprise departure.

Day, who now ranks among the highest-paid coaches in college football following his contract adjustment, remains at the helm of one of the sport’s premier programs. But sources close to the situation suggest that the pay bump — and what it may signal about the Buckeyes’ internal hierarchy — has created uncertainty for Hartline, a rising star in the coaching ranks and former standout Buckeye wide receiver.

Hartline, 38, was promoted to offensive coordinator just last season after years of excelling as the wide receivers coach, where he helped develop NFL talent such as Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Marvin Harrison Jr. His offensive acumen and recruiting dominance made him a fan favorite and a potential heir to the head coaching job should Day ever depart. But now, insiders say Hartline feels “boxed in” amid Day’s extended control over offensive play-calling and increased influence.

“Brian knows he has options,” a source familiar with the situation told reporters. “There are programs out there ready to hand him the keys to their offense — or even a head coaching gig.”

Programs in both the SEC and Big 12 are rumored to be monitoring the situation closely, aware that Hartline’s blend of player development, recruiting chops, and modern offensive philosophy make him one of the hottest young names in college football.

Ohio State has yet to comment publicly on the speculation, but internally, athletic department officials are believed to be working to ensure Hartline remains with the program — possibly with an enhanced role or further compensation.

As the Buckeyes prepare for a crucial 2025 campaign, questions around the team’s coaching dynamics could become an unwanted distraction. If Hartline were to leave, it would mark a significant shift for a program that has relied on his expertise to build one of the nation’s most feared offenses.

For now, Buckeye Nation is left holding its breath — wondering if one of its most beloved figures is about to walk out the door.