Ohio State Announces Contract Extensions For Tim Walton, Jim Knowles, Multiple Others

The Ohio State Buckeyes extended four coaches through the 2025 season, including Keenan Bailey and Larry Johnson.

The Ohio State Buckeyes have extended four of their assistant coaches through the 2025 season.

Buckeyes defensive line coach Larry Johnson, tight ends coach Keenan Bailey, and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles each received contract extensions. These re-ups varied in duration but ensured each coach would be with the Scarlet and Gray through at least the 2025 season.

Additionally, former cornerbacks coach Tim Walton was promoted to assistant head coach. The advancement also came with a two-year contract extension, keeping Walton in Columbus through 2026.

Walton played a major role in Ohio State's impressive offseason, recruiting several high-quality defensive backs to the program. Pitches from Walton were instrumental in securing commitments from five-star recruits Aaron Scott Jr. (2024) and Na'eem Offord (2025), as well as ex-Alabama Crimson Tide cornerback Caleb Downs.

Knowles had a tremendous second year as Ohio State's defensive coordinator. The Buckeyes finished this past season ranked third in total defense and second in the country in scoring.

Part of Knowles' success was due to the defensive line, which was led by Larry Johnson. "The Rushmen," as they are known, combined for 33.5 tackles for loss alongside 18 sacks over last season's 12 games.

Finally, Bailey's tight ends were crucial in pulling the focus of opposing defenses away from receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. One of Bailey's products, Cade Stover, is the third-best available at his position and a projected third-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

With the promotions of Walton and linebackers coach James Laurinaitis (formerly a graduate assistant), Ohio State coach Ryan Day's assistant coaching staff has now been finalized.