BREAKING NEWS: Ohio State Buckeyes football Icon Orlando Pace is making a major return to Columbus—this time in a leadership role. The Buckeyes has officially announced that Orlando, the Veteran offensive tackle will rejoin the organization in 2025 as the new

COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a stunning and exhilarating announcement that’s sending shockwaves through the college football world, Ohio State University has officially confirmed that Buckeye legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Orlando Pace is returning to the program—this time, not in pads and cleats, but in a suit and tie.

Starting in 2025, Pace will join the Buckeyes in a prominent leadership role, signaling a bold new chapter for the storied program and rekindling the spirit of one of the greatest to ever wear the Scarlet and Gray.

Orlando Pace’s name is synonymous with dominance on the football field. During his collegiate career from 1994 to 1996, the 6’7”, 325-pound offensive tackle redefined what it meant to play the position. He didn’t just block—he overwhelmed, punished, and imposed his will.

The term “pancake block” wasn’t coined because of him—but it was popularized because of him. He was a consensus All-American, a two-time Lombardi Award winner (the only two-time recipient in history), and the 1996 Outland Trophy winner. He finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting—as an offensive lineman—a feat almost unheard of.

And now, nearly 30 years after dominating the trenches, he’s back in Columbus to help shape the next era of Ohio State football, this time in a role focused on vision, mentorship, and legacy.

While the specific title has not yet been finalized, sources within the athletic department confirm that Pace will take on a hybrid executive position that blends administrative leadership, alumni engagement, and player development.

Per Ohio State’s official statement:

“We are thrilled to welcome Orlando Pace back to the Buckeye family in a leadership capacity. His extraordinary experience on and off the field, combined with his passion for Ohio State and college athletics, will be instrumental in shaping our program’s future.”

This position will allow Pace to work closely with players, coaches, and recruits, providing mentorship while also contributing to broader program strategy. He’ll be a bridge between eras—linking the championship traditions of the past with the competitive ambitions of the future.

The timing of this announcement is significant. The college football landscape is undergoing radical transformation, with NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), the transfer portal, and expanded College Football Playoff access redefining what it means to build and sustain a championship program.

In this new era, leadership matters more than ever. Programs need cultural anchors—figures who embody values, tradition, and excellence.

That’s exactly what Pace brings to the table.

After his legendary college career, Pace was selected No. 1 overall in the 1997 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. He went on to become a seven-time Pro Bowler, three-time First-Team All-Pro, and a Super Bowl Champion. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013.

This isn’t just a former player returning to his alma mater. This is a Hall of Famer returning to elevate a modern football powerhouse with world-class credibility and insight.

1. Enhanced Player Development

There’s no substitute for learning from the best. For offensive linemen in particular, the opportunity to be mentored by Orlando Pace is invaluable.

“Imagine being an 18-year-old lineman and hearing that Orlando Pace is going to be at practice, watching film, offering tips—that’s an instant game-changer,” said a source close to the program.

Pace’s presence will elevate the expectations and techniques of linemen from day one. And that kind of mentorship will ripple throughout the locker room.

2. A Recruiting Gold Mine

In the competitive world of college football recruiting, relationships and reputation go a long way. Orlando Pace adds immediate star power and credibility.

Prospects want to know they’re joining a program that’s serious about building NFL futures. With Pace at the table during recruiting visits or speaking to families, Ohio State has a powerful new advantage.

And let’s not forget: for linemen looking to follow in his footsteps, this could be the deciding factor.

3. Legacy and Culture

Pace represents the best of Buckeye tradition. Bringing him into a leadership role reinforces the importance of character, discipline, and excellence.

You can’t buy that kind of legacy. You earn it—and Pace has.

In recent years, Orlando Pace has remained active in the football world, frequently returning to Columbus for alumni events, mentoring young athletes, and representing Ohio State with pride.

This new chapter feels like a natural progression. According to Athletic Director [Insert AD Name], the decision to bring Pace into the fold had been in the works for months.

“We’ve had ongoing conversations with Orlando about ways he could support the program more directly,” the AD said. “The stars aligned, and now we’re fortunate to officially bring him home.”

The news of Pace’s return was met with enthusiasm from all corners of the football community.

• Ryan Day, head coach:
  

  “Orlando is a Buckeye through and through. Having him around our players is a huge asset. He’s not just one of the best linemen ever—he’s one of the best people.”

• Former teammate Eddie George:
  

  “This is a win for the program. Orlando brings so much wisdom and authenticity. The guys are going to benefit immensely.”

• Big Ten Network Analyst Gerry DiNardo:
  

  “This kind of move shows Ohio State isn’t just chasing wins—they’re investing in culture, legacy, and leadership.”

While his exact day-to-day responsibilities will evolve, insiders expect Pace to:

• Attend practices and film sessions with the offensive line unit.
• Participate in recruiting weekends and alumni outreach.
• Help shape program messaging and cultural values.
• Engage with NIL strategy, offering mentorship and representation.
• Speak at leadership summits and booster events.

This is not a ceremonial or symbolic role—Pace is coming in to work, and the program is preparing to maximize every bit of what he offers.

In the long and decorated history of Ohio State football, few names shine as brightly as Orlando Pace’s. He was the gold standard for offensive linemen—not just at Ohio State, but in all of college football. He changed the way the game was played and inspired generations of players.

Now, he returns to help write the next chapter in Buckeye history.

He’s not chasing more accolades. He’s giving back. He’s building. And he’s ensuring that future Buckeyes understand what it means to play with pride, toughness, and excellence.

Ohio State football has always been about more than wins and losses. It’s about family. Tradition. Excellence. And no one embodies those principles better than Orlando Pace.

With this bold move, the Buckeyes are making a statement: the future of the program will be guided not just by strategy and statistics, but by heart, history, and honor.

And now, the legend who once bulldozed defenders in The Shoe will be helping shape the future from the sidelines and the boardroom.