In a development that has sent shockwaves through the world of college football and beyond, legendary Ohio State running back Eddie George is officially returning to his alma mater—not as a coach, player, or commentator, but as a co-owner of the program. The move, facilitated through a groundbreaking private equity restructure involving the powerful Fertitta family, ushers in a bold new era of collegiate sports ownership and alumni investment.
This 2025 announcement represents one of the most unconventional but potentially transformative moments in the history of NCAA athletics. With Tilman Joseph Fertitta and his family leading the charge in modernizing Ohio State’s athletic infrastructure, bringing Eddie George back into the fold signals a calculated and symbolic return to tradition—anchored by the legacy of one of the most revered Buckeyes in program history.
A Monumental Announcement That Rewrites the Playbook
The announcement came via a formal statement from the Fertitta family, who have overseen major financial developments at Ohio State since acquiring significant influence over its private athletic holdings in 2023. While such structures remain controversial in NCAA circles, the fusion of donor-led NIL collectives and privatized athletics boards is increasingly common among Power Five schools.
“Eddie George is not just a football icon—he is a Buckeye legend and a cultural beacon for what Ohio State represents,” said Tilman Joseph Fertitta during a press conference. “Welcoming him as co-owner is not only an acknowledgment of his past achievements but an investment in the future leadership of this university’s athletic identity.”
George, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1995 and enjoyed a stellar NFL career with the Tennessee Titans, has remained deeply connected to Ohio State over the years. His appointment as co-owner symbolizes a bridge between legacy and modern innovation in college athletics—a realm now steeped in NIL deals, media rights battles, and athlete empowerment.
Eddie George: From Gridiron Great to Business Visionary
Since his playing days, Eddie George has transcended the title of “former athlete.” He earned an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and has built a successful career in entrepreneurship, acting, and coaching. Most recently, he served as the head football coach at Tennessee State University, where he embraced a leadership role rooted in mentorship and development.
Now, George adds “co-owner” to his growing résumé—a term rarely, if ever, applied to a former college player within the framework of his alma mater.
“It’s surreal,” George said during the official press conference. “To return to the place that shaped me, now as a co-owner and partner in its next chapter, is an honor beyond words. I’m here to give back, to invest in young athletes, and to ensure that the spirit of Buckeye football remains as powerful as ever.”
A New Ownership Model for Collegiate Athletics?
The concept of co-ownership in college sports is still in its infancy, but Ohio State’s move could set a nationwide precedent. By integrating influential alumni like Eddie George into ownership and decision-making roles, athletic departments may unlock new capital, enhance program branding, and strengthen alumni relations.
According to sources close to the university, the Fertitta family’s financial apparatus has been instrumental in negotiating multi-platform media rights, expanding NIL infrastructure, and overseeing facility development. George’s entry into this arena is viewed not merely as ceremonial but strategic—offering authentic connection with players, credibility with fans, and influence in recruiting circles.
“It’s a new era, and we need leaders who understand both the tradition and the business,” said Fertitta. “Eddie George embodies that duality perfectly.”
Strategic Goals: What Eddie George’s Role Will Entail
As co-owner, George will hold a seat on the university’s newly established Athletic Development Board, responsible for strategic decisions surrounding revenue-generating sports, particularly football. His duties are expected to include:
- Mentorship and leadership development for current players
- Strategic input on recruiting initiatives and NIL marketing
- Collaborations with corporate partners and sponsors
- Oversight on brand expansion, including apparel, licensing, and digital content
- Philanthropic leadership in student-athlete welfare and education programs
Additionally, sources hint at George taking a front-facing role in the university’s plan to launch its own media streaming platform—an initiative many believe could be the future of college sports broadcasting.
Reaction from Buckeye Nation: Cheers, Chills, and Championship Hopes
The response to the announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media lit up with tributes to George, clips of his iconic touchdown runs, and hopeful projections about his impact on the program.
“Eddie George coming home as co-owner? That’s the kind of leadership and legacy we need,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “He’s a warrior, a businessman, and a Buckeye through and through.”
Current and former players also shared their excitement. Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin posted, “Can’t wait to learn from a legend like Eddie George. This is big time.” Meanwhile, former teammate Orlando Pace simply wrote, “Welcome home, brother. Buckeye Nation is ready.”
NCAA Landscape: What This Means for Other Programs
George’s return as co-owner may open floodgates for other programs to follow suit. Imagine Reggie Bush joining a USC ownership group, or Tim Tebow taking a controlling interest in Florida athletics. The blend of legacy, business, and branding creates a compelling narrative in today’s athlete-driven culture.
Critics, however, worry about widening gaps between the haves and have-nots. If wealthy donors begin privatizing portions of athletic programs and installing alumni icons as figurehead owners, mid-major and lower-tier programs may struggle to keep pace.
Still, proponents argue that programs like Ohio State are merely adapting to a rapidly evolving ecosystem.
“This is about maximizing potential,” said OSU Athletic Director Gene Smith. “We’ve entered a phase where tradition alone isn’t enough—you need leadership that understands the marketplace. Eddie George is that leader.”
Legacy Meets Leadership: A Full-Circle Moment
Few stories in college football carry the poetic weight of Eddie George’s return. From a shy transfer student at Ohio State to a Heisman winner, NFL Pro Bowler, businessman, coach, and now co-owner, his journey exemplifies perseverance and excellence.
“There were times I never thought I’d wear the scarlet and gray again in this capacity,” George admitted, emotion in his voice. “But life has a way of bringing things full circle. This is not just about football. It’s about culture, community, and building something enduring.”
The Future of Ohio State Football Under New Leadership
Ohio State football is already considered a blue-blood program, but the Fertitta-George partnership signals an effort to future-proof the brand. Plans are reportedly underway to:
- Expand and modernize Ohio Stadium with high-tech fan experiences
- Launch a global Buckeye brand campaign to grow international appeal
- Elevate the school’s athlete-to-entrepreneur pipeline, offering students business mentorship and post-career planning
- Redefine recruiting with access to national marketing platforms led by George and other alumni
“We’re not just building teams,” George said. “We’re building legacies—on and off the field.”
Final Thoughts: A Bold New Buckeye Era Begins
Eddie George’s return to Ohio State in 2025 as co-owner is more than a headline—it’s a harbinger of change. In a time when collegiate athletics are undergoing seismic transformation, Ohio State has positioned itself at the forefront of innovation while honoring its roots. It’s rare to find a move that satisfies both the heart and the head, but George’s appointment does just that.
As Buckeye Nation celebrates this homecoming, the message is clear: the past is proud, the future is fearless, and Ohio State is ready to lead from the front—again.
“Being a Buckeye never ends,” George said. “Now, I get to help write the next chapter.”
Sources:
- Ohio State Athletic Department Press Release
- Fertitta Family Financial Group Statements
- Press Conference Footage (May 21, 2025)
- Social Media Reactions via X, Instagram, and YouTube
- NCAA and NIL regulatory documentation
