A former Buckeye has joined Ohio State football coach Ryan Day’s staff.
Ohio State football, one of the most storied programs in the history of college football, has always been at the forefront of producing not just outstanding players but also future coaches who continue to shape the sport. Under the leadership of head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have experienced remarkable success over the past few seasons, consistently competing at the highest levels and producing NFL-ready talent. But in 2025, Ryan Day’s staff saw a new addition that raised eyebrows across the college football landscape: a former Buckeye who is returning to his alma mater, not as a player, but as a coach.
The Buckeye Tradition
To understand the significance of this addition, it’s crucial to acknowledge the deep traditions of Ohio State football. The Buckeyes have a long and storied history, filled with legendary players, unforgettable games, and numerous championships. From the days of Woody Hayes and the iconic “Three Yards and a Cloud of Dust” to the present era of high-flying offenses and prolific defenses, Ohio State has been a perennial powerhouse in college football.
Players who come to Ohio State are not only playing for the university; they are playing for a legacy. They are following in the footsteps of greats like Archie Griffin, Eddie George, Troy Smith, and so many others who have contributed to the tradition of excellence. When those players leave, many choose to remain involved with the program, often returning as coaches, administrators, or in other roles to help shape the next generation of Buckeyes.
Ryan Day: Building on a Legacy
Ryan Day has been at the helm of Ohio State football since 2018, taking over from the legendary Urban Meyer. While Meyer’s tenure was marked by national championships and undefeated seasons, Day has continued that success. Under Day’s leadership, Ohio State has remained a top-tier program, often competing for the Big Ten title and national championships. The Buckeyes have been to the College Football Playoff (CFP) multiple times under Day, and his innovative offensive schemes have helped produce some of the best quarterbacks and skill players in the country.
However, as Day continues to elevate Ohio State to new heights, one of his key goals has been to surround himself with a coaching staff that shares his vision while bringing unique experiences and perspectives to the table. Day has consistently emphasized the importance of bringing in both experienced coaches and rising stars who have a connection to Ohio State football. By doing so, he is ensuring that the program continues to maintain its strong ties to its history while also staying ahead of the curve with modern strategies and techniques.
The Former Buckeye Coach: A Return to Columbus
In 2025, the latest addition to Ryan Day’s coaching staff is a former Ohio State player, who, after a successful career in the NFL and a few years away from the program, has returned to his roots. This former Buckeye, whose identity was revealed during the offseason, has been a beloved figure among fans due to his time as a player at Ohio State and his impressive post-college career. His return to Columbus is seen as a full-circle moment for both the player and the program.
This former player’s name is Chris Olave, a standout wide receiver who played for the Buckeyes from 2018 to 2021. Olave is remembered for his exceptional speed, ability to make spectacular catches, and his connection with quarterbacks like Justin Fields. He played a crucial role in the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense, setting multiple records and garnering national attention for his performances on the field. After a stellar college career, Olave was drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, where he continued to impress as a professional.
Olave’s Journey to Coaching
After a few seasons in the NFL, Olave began to consider his future in the sport beyond playing. He had always been passionate about the game, and his deep love for Ohio State football never waned. The idea of returning to Ohio State in a coaching capacity began to take shape, and after discussions with Ryan Day and others within the program, Olave agreed to join the coaching staff. His new role would allow him to pass on the knowledge he gained both at Ohio State and in the NFL to the next generation of Buckeyes.
Chris Olave’s transition from player to coach is not uncommon, especially for former athletes who have had the opportunity to experience the game at its highest levels. Many players, like Olave, feel a strong desire to give back to the program that helped shape their careers, and coaching is a natural way to do that. Olave’s understanding of the game, combined with his familiarity with Ohio State’s culture and expectations, makes him an ideal candidate for this role.
Impact on the Wide Receiver Room
One of the primary reasons Olave’s return is so significant is his expertise in the wide receiver position. Ohio State has been a wide receiver factory for years, producing some of the best players in college football and the NFL. Names like Michael Thomas, Terry McLaurin, and, of course, Olave himself, have solidified the program’s reputation as a pipeline for top-tier talent at the position.
With Olave’s appointment, the Buckeyes now have a coach who understands exactly what it takes to succeed at the highest levels. His firsthand experience in both college football and the NFL provides him with unique insights into what it takes to excel as a wide receiver, whether at the collegiate level or as a professional. Olave’s approach to coaching will no doubt focus on developing not only the technical skills needed to make plays but also the mental toughness and discipline that comes with competing at the highest levels of the game.
For current wide receivers at Ohio State, having someone like Olave in their corner will be invaluable. Not only does he bring a wealth of knowledge, but his presence in the room serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible with hard work and dedication. Olave’s success story – from a top recruit to an NFL star – is an inspiration to the young players in the program, and his journey will undoubtedly motivate them to push themselves even harder to achieve greatness.
Olave’s Influence Beyond the Field
While Olave’s technical expertise as a wide receiver coach is undeniable, his influence extends far beyond the field. As a former Buckeye, he understands the importance of instilling the right mindset in players. Ohio State football is more than just a program; it’s a culture. The expectations at Ohio State are high, and the pressure to perform can be intense. For a player to succeed in this environment, they must not only be physically talented but also mentally tough.
Olave, having gone through the rigors of both college and professional football, can relate to the challenges that players face on and off the field. His leadership qualities and commitment to excellence will serve him well as a coach, as he works to develop the next generation of Buckeyes both as athletes and as individuals. He will undoubtedly stress the importance of discipline, teamwork, and resilience – values that have always been at the heart of Ohio State football.
Ryan Day’s Vision for the Future
For Ryan Day, the addition of Chris Olave to his staff is more than just a nostalgic moment; it’s a strategic move aimed at continuing Ohio State’s tradition of excellence. Day has always sought to bring in the best and brightest to help push the program forward, and Olave’s expertise, coupled with his passion for Ohio State, aligns perfectly with Day’s vision for the future.
Day has built his reputation on innovation and adaptability, and having a former player with firsthand knowledge of the program’s culture and the NFL’s demands will be invaluable. By adding Olave to the staff, Day is ensuring that the Buckeyes not only continue to develop talent at a high level but also maintain the strong connection to the history and traditions that make Ohio State football so special.
Full Circle for Olave and Ohio State
Chris Olave’s return to Ohio State as a coach marks a significant moment in the program’s ongoing evolution. It symbolizes the seamless transition from player to coach, a path that many former athletes follow, and it highlights the enduring bond between Ohio State football and its alumni. As Olave begins his coaching career, he brings with him a wealth of experience, a deep understanding of the game, and an undeniable passion for the program that helped shape him.
For Ohio State fans, the addition of Olave to the coaching staff is a moment to celebrate. It’s a reminder that the program is not just about the players of today, but also about the alumni who continue to contribute to its success. As Ryan Day’s staff continues to evolve and improve, the presence of Chris Olave ensures that the future of Ohio State football remains in good hands, with a coach who not only knows the game but knows the heart of what it means to be a Buckeye.