Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has been forced into damage-control mode after the Buckeyes suffered a significant hit in the transfer portal, creating uncertainty around the program’s short-term depth and stability. With several key contributors opting to leave, Day and his staff moved quickly to prevent further fallout—particularly from players weighing an early jump to the NFL.
According to team insiders, Day held direct conversations with multiple draft-eligible players, emphasizing their value to the program and the opportunity to elevate their NFL stock by returning for another season. The message was clear: with the roster in flux, leadership and continuity are critical, and Ohio State still offers a prime platform for development, exposure, and postseason contention.
MUST LISTEN: Ryan Day spoke about the importance of people in life and around the program as well as a leadership lesson.
This will be the best two minutes of your day and is more evidence the Buckeyes are in the right hands. pic.twitter.com/ldaFFyH9I9
— Blake T. Biscardi (@BlakeBiscardi) December 29, 2025
While the transfer blow has raised concerns among fans, Ohio State’s proactive approach suggests the program is intent on weathering the storm rather than resetting entirely. For Day, keeping key players out of the NFL—at least for now—may be the difference between a transitional season and another run at national relevance.