REPORT: Arthur Smith joining Ryan Day’s staff as offensive coordinator

CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) - Former Falcons head coach and longtime NFL assistant Arthur Smith is heading to Columbus, according to ESPN.

NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that the former Steelers offensive coordinator will now join Ryan Day as OC at Ohio State University.

Smith hasn’t coached at the collegiate level since 2010, when he was a defensive intern and administrative assistant at Ole Miss. He’ll replace Brian Hartline, who was named head coach at the University of South Florida in December.

The Buckeyes similarly turned to the NFL when Jim Knowles left for Penn State after the 2024 season. Ohio State hired former Lions head coach and longtime NFL assistant Matt Patricia as defensive coordinator.

Most recently, Smith was the Steelers’ OC for the past two seasons under Mike Tomlin. Tomlin agreed to step down after the 2025 season, and Mike McCarthy will replace the veteran head coach.

Prior to Smith’s stint in Pittsburgh, he was the Falcons head coach. He was fired after three seasons, a 21-30 record and no playoff appearances.

Smith will lead an offense headlined by Buckeyes’ star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, and returns quarterback Julian Sayin.