How much is Ohio State paying Chip Kelly?

From Westwood to Columbus: Decoding Chip Kelly’s Ohio State Paycheck

Chip Kelly’s move from UCLA to Ohio State sent ripples through the college football landscape. Leaving the head coaching role at a Pac-12 institution to become the offensive coordinator at a Big Ten powerhouse is a significant career pivot. But beyond the strategic implications, the financial aspect of this transition is naturally drawing considerable interest. While exact details of Kelly’s Ohio State contract remain tightly guarded, understanding his past compensation paints a clearer picture of what he might be earning in Columbus.

As head coach at UCLA, Kelly’s compensation package was a hefty $4.8 million annually, as of late 2022. This substantial figure, comprising his base salary and other contractual bonuses and benefits, underscored UCLA’s commitment to his leadership and vision for the football program. This number serves as a crucial benchmark when considering his new role at Ohio State.

Now, let’s address the key question: How much is Ohio State paying Chip Kelly? The official figures haven’t been publicly disclosed. However, several factors suggest that while he may not be earning more than his UCLA salary, the move likely comes with significant financial benefits and career stability.

Firstly, Ohio State’s commitment to football is unparalleled. The program operates with a massive budget, and their willingness to invest in top-tier coaching talent is well-documented. While an offensive coordinator typically earns less than a head coach, the prestige and platform afforded by Ohio State are invaluable.

Secondly, Kelly’s track record as a play-caller is undeniable. His innovative offensive schemes, honed at Oregon and in the NFL, are a sought-after commodity in the ever-evolving world of college football. Ohio State likely recognizes the potential return on investment in Kelly’s expertise, particularly in bolstering their national championship aspirations.

Finally, the structure of his contract likely includes performance-based bonuses tied to Ohio State’s offensive success and overall team achievements. These incentives could potentially allow Kelly to earn close to, or even surpass, his previous compensation at UCLA, especially if Ohio State consistently ranks among the top offenses in the nation.

In conclusion, while the exact figures remain undisclosed, it’s safe to assume that Chip Kelly’s move to Ohio State involves a highly competitive and lucrative contract. While it’s unlikely he took a significant pay cut, the true value lies beyond the immediate paycheck. He gains access to elite resources, the chance to work alongside a top-tier coaching staff, and the opportunity to contribute to a program with genuine national championship aspirations. The Ohio State gig provides Kelly with a platform to revitalize his coaching career, potentially leading to future head coaching opportunities at an even higher level. Ultimately, his compensation reflects not just his past performance, but also Ohio State’s confidence in his ability to elevate their already formidable offense to new heights. The move represents a strategic investment for both parties, with the long-term benefits potentially far outweighing the immediate financial considerations.