Breaking News: Cris Carter Named Ohio State Head Coach for 2025 Season
In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the college football world, Cris Carter, the legendary NFL wide receiver and Ohio State alum, has been officially named the new head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes for the 2025 season. The announcement was made earlier today by Ohio State Athletic Director Gene Smith, marking the end of a highly anticipated search for the next leader of one of college football’s most storied programs.
Carter, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, will be taking over a program that has consistently ranked among the nation’s elite but is looking to return to championship glory. His hiring represents both a bold and visionary decision by Ohio State, blending the rich tradition of the Buckeyes with the dynamic leadership of an icon who is well known for his football IQ, work ethic, and passion for the game.
Cris Carter, who played for Ohio State in the early 1980s before becoming an NFL star with the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings, is widely regarded as one of the best players to ever grace the gridiron. With over 1,100 career receptions, 130 touchdowns, and a reputation for his ability to make game-changing plays, Carter built an impressive resume that made him a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 2013.
While Carter’s name is synonymous with greatness in the NFL, his ties to Ohio State run deep. A native of Middletown, Ohio, Carter was recruited to play for the Buckeyes, where he showcased his talent as a freshman and quickly became one of the team’s standout players. Despite facing challenges, including academic eligibility issues, Carter’s impact on the field was undeniable. His time at Ohio State not only launched his professional career but also solidified his bond with the Buckeye community.
Over the years, Carter has remained an ambassador for his alma mater, frequently returning to Columbus to speak with players, coach youth camps, and offer support to the Ohio State football program. His love for the Buckeyes has been a constant throughout his life, and many see his hiring as a natural culmination of his journey.
Carter’s appointment comes after a tumultuous few years following the departure of Urban Meyer in 2019. Meyer’s tenure was marked by multiple Big Ten championships and a national title, but the team has since been trying to recapture its former dominance under Ryan Day, who led the program to multiple College Football Playoff appearances but ultimately fell short of winning another national title.
With Day stepping down and taking on a new role in the program’s front office, Ohio State saw an opportunity to make a splash in hiring a head coach who could bring fresh energy to the team while embracing the Buckeye tradition of excellence. Carter’s deep football knowledge and natural leadership were viewed as key qualities that could help the program make a smooth transition into a new era of Ohio State football.
Cris Carter’s extensive playing career and his post-football success as a broadcaster and mentor position him uniquely to take on the head coach role. He is no stranger to success, having worked as an analyst for ESPN and NFL Network, where he gained valuable experience in evaluating talent, studying game film, and providing insights into the game of football.
Carter’s leadership style is expected to emphasize discipline, preparation, and a mental toughness that mirrors his own career. Known for his work ethic, Carter has also been praised for his ability to motivate and connect with players, having coached various youth and high school athletes throughout his post-NFL career.
His hire signals Ohio State’s commitment to winning, both on and off the field, and many anticipate that Carter will instill a new level of accountability, drive, and innovation to ensure the Buckeyes remain competitive at the highest level.
Ohio State fans are ecstatic about Carter’s return to Columbus, and the hiring has already sparked excitement in recruiting circles. The prospect of an Ohio State team led by a Hall of Famer with a rich understanding of both the college and professional game is undoubtedly appealing to top-tier prospects. Additionally, Carter’s passion for the Buckeye community will likely resonate with both current players and alumni, as the program seeks to build upon its legacy of excellence.
As Cris Carter steps into the role of Ohio State’s head coach, all eyes will be on how he transitions from the broadcast booth to the sideline. If his career as a player and analyst is any indication, however, Carter’s leadership could mark the beginning of another championship-contending era for the Buckeyes. Fans and players alike are eager to see what the future holds under Carter’s guidance.
