Ohio State OC Chip Kelly Sounds Alarm Over NIL Challenges: “We Are Losing Recruits in the Portal to Schools That Are Just Flat Outbidding Us”

Ohio State OC Chip Kelly Sounds Alarm Over NIL Challenges: “We Are Losing Recruits in the Portal to Schools That Are Just Flat Outbidding Us”

Ohio State Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly has voiced serious concerns about the growing impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals on college football recruiting. Speaking candidly during a recent press conference, Kelly highlighted the challenges the Buckeyes are facing in retaining and attracting talent amid fierce competition in the transfer portal.

“We are losing recruits in the portal to schools that are just flat outbidding us,” Kelly said. “It’s not about the program, the facilities, or even the chance to win championships anymore. For some players, it’s all about who can offer the biggest paycheck.”

Ohio State, a perennial powerhouse in college football, has traditionally been a top destination for elite recruits. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically since the introduction of NIL, which allows players to profit from endorsement deals and sponsorships. Kelly’s comments underline a growing concern across college athletics that NIL could lead to an uneven playing field, where programs with the deepest pockets dominate the recruiting wars.

Kelly noted that Ohio State remains committed to supporting its athletes through NIL opportunities, but he acknowledged the difficulty of competing with schools backed by larger donor bases or corporate partnerships. “We have a strong program and a passionate fanbase, but we’re not immune to the reality of NIL. It’s a challenge we have to address, or we risk falling behind.”

Ohio State head coach Ryan Day has also spoken about the importance of creating a sustainable NIL strategy. In recent months, the university has ramped up efforts to educate players and connect them with opportunities, but Kelly’s remarks suggest that more needs to be done at both the program and NCAA levels.

Kelly called for greater regulation and transparency in NIL deals to prevent the system from being exploited. “There has to be a balance,” he said. “If this trend continues unchecked, it could fundamentally change college football in ways we’re not prepared for.”

As the Buckeyes gear up for another season, the pressure is on to find innovative solutions to remain competitive in an increasingly money-driven environment. For now, Kelly’s comments serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing even the most storied programs in the NIL era.