Arthur Smith Opts for Ohio State OC Role After NFL Interest

Arthur Smith, a well-regarded NFL coach with experience leading both head coaching and coordinator roles, has accepted the offensive coordinator position at Ohio State, concluding speculation about his next move. Before committing to the Buckeyes, Smith reportedly drew interest from several NFL teams seeking offensive leadership, including the Philadelphia Eagles and Tennessee Titans.

According to NFL insider Dianna Russini, Smith held discussions with both organizations as they evaluated their offensive futures. Philadelphia was exploring options after parting ways with Kevin Patullo, while Tennessee, under new head coach Robert Saleh, sought an offensive coordinator to shape their staff’s direction.

Smith’s decision to return to college football represents a notable shift after a recent NFL trajectory that included a head coaching stint in Atlanta and a successful coordinator role with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His choice underscores the appeal of Ohio State’s stability and roster talent, as well as the opportunity to operate in a high-profile, program-driven environment.

The move also continues Ohio State’s recent trend of hiring coaches with NFL experience to lead its offense, signaling the program’s commitment to blending professional insight with elite collegiate talent.

1. NFL Interest and Career Context

Smith’s name carried significant weight in NFL circles. He previously interviewed for the Eagles’ head coaching position in January 2021 before ultimately taking the Atlanta Falcons job. During his three seasons in Atlanta, Smith posted a 21-30 record, finishing with three consecutive 7-10 campaigns before being dismissed. Following Atlanta, Smith resurfaced in Pittsburgh as offensive coordinator, earning praise for helping the Steelers capture the 2025 AFC North title while managing an aging Aaron Rodgers. His performance reaffirmed his value as a creative, adaptable offensive mind capable of navigating complex NFL situations. The Titans’ interest was logical given Smith’s previous interactions with Tennessee’s front office. He had met with general manager Mike Borgonzi during the franchise’s prior coaching search, providing familiarity that made him a natural candidate under Saleh’s regime. Philadelphia’s pursuit also reflected confidence in Smith’s experience and adaptability. Both organizations were evaluating key offensive roles, yet Smith ultimately opted for the clear, structured opportunity offered by Ohio State.

2. Ohio State Opportunity

Ohio State had been in search of a new offensive coordinator after Brian Hartline left for a head coaching position at South Florida. Head coach Ryan Day turned to the NFL pipeline once again, bringing Smith on board to join a staff already featuring former Detroit Lions head coach Matt Patricia. Smith’s hiring gives the Buckeyes a coach experienced in both NFL head coaching and coordinating roles, a combination that can accelerate development of one of the nation’s deepest rosters. His ability to adapt professional schemes to the college game positions him as a significant asset for Ohio State’s offensive ambitions. The Buckeyes have recently leaned on NFL experience for offensive leadership, with Smith becoming the second former NFL head coach to hold the coordinator role in just three years after Chip Kelly’s title-winning tenure in 2024. This pattern reflects a broader strategy of merging professional acumen with elite collegiate talent to maintain championship-level performance. For Smith, this role offers clarity and stability, allowing him to focus on developing players and implementing a system without the uncertainty often associated with NFL staffing changes.

3. Implications for NFL Teams

With Smith committing to Ohio State, the Eagles and Titans must continue their searches for offensive coordinators. Philadelphia will need to identify a replacement capable of innovating while complementing its roster, while Tennessee’s search remains tied to uncertainties surrounding Brian Daboll’s availability. Smith’s departure illustrates the competitive tug-of-war between college programs and NFL teams for top coaching talent. For coaches with experience at the highest professional levels, returning to college can provide security, creative control, and an opportunity to work with elite talent at a formative stage. For the NFL teams involved, losing Smith may be a setback but also a reminder of the fluid coaching market. Organizations must balance the desire for proven experience with the realities of opportunity and timing, particularly when coordinating roles are highly sought after. Meanwhile, Smith steps into a role where he can shape one of the country’s most talent-rich offenses, potentially leaving a lasting mark on the Buckeyes’ program while continuing to develop his reputation as a versatile, high-level coach.