Ohio State University is finalizing a deal to hire Arthur Smith, the former offensive coordinator of the Pittsburgh Steelers, as its new offensive coordinator, according to multiple reports on January 25, 2026. This move aims to bring NFL experience to the Buckeyes’ coaching staff as they seek to enhance their offensive strategies.
The hiring process is in its final stages, with Smith set to replace Brian Hartline, who recently became the head coach at South Florida. Smith spent the last two seasons with the Steelers under Mike Tomlin, helping the team win the AFC North this past season despite a playoff loss to the Houston Texans. His appointment comes shortly after the Steelers hired Mike McCarthy as their new head coach, marking a transition period for both franchises.
Arthur Smith brings a decade of NFL coaching experience to Ohio State. He served as the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons from 2021 to 2023, compiling a 21-30 record over three seasons. Prior to that, he was with the Tennessee Titans from 2011 to 2020, rising from defensive quality control to offensive coordinator. During his tenure with the Titans, Smith played a key role in developing quarterback Ryan Tannehill and optimizing the running game led by Derrick Henry, resulting in a top-five offense in 2020.
At Ohio State, Smith will inherit a highly talented offensive roster. Quarterback Julian Sayin was a Heisman finalist in his first season as starter, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is a two-time All-American, and running back Bo Jackson rushed for 1,090 yards as a freshman. The Buckeyes finished the regular season undefeated but lost in the Big Ten championship to Indiana and fell to Miami in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, indicating room for offensive improvement.
Head coach Ryan Day’s decision to hire Smith follows a similar pattern from last offseason when he brought in Matt Patricia as defensive coordinator. Patricia’s unit allowed the fewest points per game in the FBS this season, demonstrating the value of NFL expertise. Smith’s hiring is expected to leverage his pro-style offensive schemes to boost Ohio State’s performance, particularly in critical games.
Smith’s coaching approach has drawn both praise and criticism. In Pittsburgh, he adapted to a changing quarterback situation involving Justin Fields, Russell Wilson, and Aaron Rodgers, but the Steelers’ rushing offense declined this season. In Atlanta, he was sometimes criticized for not fully utilizing playmakers like Bijan Robinson. At Ohio State, he will need to effectively deploy his offensive weapons to meet high expectations.
This move marks Smith’s return to college football after over a decade in the NFL; his last collegiate role was as a defensive intern at Ole Miss in 2010. His integration into Ohio State’s program will be crucial as the Buckeyes prepare for the 2026 season, with fans and analysts eager to see how his NFL background translates to the college level.
Overall, hiring Arthur Smith represents a strategic effort by Ohio State to strengthen its coaching staff with proven NFL experience, aiming to position the team as a national championship contender in the coming seasons.
