Ohio State Retains Defensive Coordinator Matt Patricia With Historic $11.45M Extension

Patricia cites Ohio State's culture and stability as key factors in staying with the Buckeyes over NFL interest.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia has signed a three-year, $11.45 million contract extension to remain at Ohio State, making him the highest-paid assistant in college football history. Patricia cited the culture and stability at Ohio State, as well as his loyalty to head coach Ryan Day, as the key reasons he chose to stay in Columbus over potential NFL opportunities.

Why it matters

Patricia's extension signals Ohio State's commitment to building a pro-style program under Day's leadership. By retaining elite NFL-pedigree coaches like Patricia and new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, the Buckeyes are positioning themselves as one of the most formidable programs in the country, despite facing significant roster turnover on the defensive side of the ball.

The details

Patricia's new $11.45 million contract makes him the highest-paid assistant coach in college football history. The deal reflects Day's CEO-style approach, where he has brought in former NFL head coaches to handle the tactical side of the game while he focuses on program management and NIL fundraising. Despite losing eight starters from their historic 2025 defense, including projected first-round picks, Patricia remains confident in maintaining the 'standard' at Ohio State.

  • Patricia signed the three-year extension on March 27, 2026.

The players

Matt Patricia

The defensive coordinator at Ohio State, who has previously won three Super Bowls as an assistant coach with the New England Patriots.

Ryan Day

The head coach at Ohio State, who has adopted a CEO-style approach to managing the program and has brought in elite NFL-pedigree coaches like Patricia and Arthur Smith.

Arthur Smith

The new offensive coordinator at Ohio State, who is expected to modernize the Buckeyes' power spread offense and leverage star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith to punish defenses.

Caleb Downs

A star defensive player for Ohio State in 2025 who is projected to be a first-round draft pick.

Christian Alliegro

A transfer from Wisconsin who will be joining the Ohio State defense in 2026.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Ohio State is such a special place, not only just the history, the tradition, the football program, the school, but the people here. Had an unbelievable experience settling into Columbus... it feels like home.”

— Matt Patricia, Defensive Coordinator

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

By retaining elite NFL-pedigree coaches like Matt Patricia and Arthur Smith, Ohio State is positioning itself as one of the most formidable programs in the country, despite facing significant roster turnover. This pro-style approach under Ryan Day's leadership could make the Buckeyes the most dangerous team in the country if they can maintain defensive dominance and revive their ground game.