The Ohio State University’s Department of Athletics is undergoing significant changes as it embraces a new era in intercollegiate athletics. In a letter to Buckeye Nation, Ross Bjork outlined the future direction, including a settlement agreement in the House vs. NCAA lawsuit that will lead to student-athletes being compensated for their name, image, and likeness rights starting in 2025-2026. This change is expected to result in over $20 million in annual payments to athletes.
Despite these changes, the department remains committed to supporting all 36 varsity sports teams and prioritizing academics, winning, and the student-athlete experience. Private support from alumni, fans, donors, and corporate partners has been crucial in maintaining a self-sustaining athletics department at Ohio State. Donor giving also supports the “Circle of Care,” which provides holistic support for student-athletes in areas such as academic support, mental health care, career preparation, and sports performance.
In addition to the NIL payments, the department is implementing other structural changes, such as national roster limits instead of scholarship limits, which will increase the number of athletic scholarships available at Ohio State. The co-ed rifle and pistol teams will also transition to women-only sports by 2029.
To support increased costs, the department is exploring various initiatives, including budget cuts, expanding philanthropic arms, revising football season ticket plans, increasing corporate sponsorships, and new branding strategies. Despite these changes, Ohio State Athletics remains dedicated to upholding its proud legacy and providing a top-notch experience for student-athletes.
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