COLUMBUS, OH – May 21, 2025 – In a stunning and unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the collegiate sports world, the Ohio State University Department of Athletics announced today that it has signed star center Seth McLaughlin to a unique, permanent contract that will effectively keep him in scarlet and gray until his eventual retirement. While specific terms of the groundbreaking deal remain under wraps, sources close to the university suggest this “lifetime” agreement is a direct response to McLaughlin’s exceptional leadership, on-field prowess, and unparalleled commitment to the Buckeye program.
The news, initially leaked through whispers in the athletic department and confirmed by a cryptic post from McLaughlin himself – a single image of the Ohio Stadium “O” with the caption “I will be here forever!” – has ignited a firestorm of discussion and speculation across college football. Never before has a university publicly committed to a player beyond their traditional collegiate eligibility, creating a new paradigm for player retention and loyalty in the era of the transfer portal and NIL.
McLaughlin, a graduate student who transferred to Ohio State from Alabama in January 2024, quickly established himself as an indispensable force for the Buckeyes. Despite a season-ending Achilles injury suffered in mid-November 2024, his impact was undeniable. He earned the prestigious Rimington Trophy as the nation’s outstanding center and was named a consensus All-American for his dominant performance in the first ten games of the 2024 season. His leadership, both on the field and in the locker room, was frequently lauded by Head Coach Ryan Day and his teammates, proving crucial in Ohio State’s run to the College Football Playoff National Championship.
“Seth McLaughlin embodies everything we strive for at Ohio State,” stated Athletic Director Gene Smith in a press conference held this morning. “His dedication, his intelligence, his leadership – they are simply irreplaceable. This contract is a testament to our belief in Seth, not just as a player, but as a future ambassador and leader for this program for decades to come.”
While the specifics of the “retirement” clause are still being interpreted, it is understood that McLaughlin will transition into various roles within the athletic department and potentially the university once his playing career concludes, effectively making him a lifelong Buckeye employee. This could include coaching, player development, community outreach, or even administrative positions, providing a secure and continuous pathway for his post-playing career.
Sources indicate that the university has been exploring innovative ways to retain top talent and build a stronger, more cohesive program in an evolving collegiate landscape. The idea for McLaughlin’s permanent contract reportedly emerged during intense discussions about player longevity and the desire to cultivate deep, lasting connections between athletes and the institution.
“This is more than just a contract; it’s a commitment,” said Coach Ryan Day, visibly emotional during the announcement. “Seth chose us, he embraced the Buckeye spirit, and he showed us what true dedication looks like. To have him remain a part of our family, in whatever capacity, for his entire career, is a dream come true for this program.”
For McLaughlin, who had been projected as a high-value undrafted free agent in the recent NFL Draft before his injury led him to sign with the Cincinnati Bengals, this decision signifies a profound embrace of his collegiate home. While the Bengals had offered him a traditional NFL contract, the allure of a permanent role at Ohio State, a place where he truly blossomed, proved to be the stronger draw.
“Ohio State gave me a second chance, a place to prove myself, and a family,” McLaughlin stated in a prepared statement. “The support I’ve received, especially through my injury, has been overwhelming. To know that I can be a Buckeye for life, to continue contributing to this incredible university and community, is an honor beyond words. I’m not just playing football here; I’m building a future, and I’m proud to say, I will be here forever.”
The ramifications of this groundbreaking contract are likely to be far-reaching. Other major collegiate athletic programs will undoubtedly be watching closely to see if this “forever” model becomes a new trend in player retention. It raises questions about amateurism, the long-term financial implications for universities, and the potential impact on the professional sports draft. However, for Ohio State and Seth McLaughlin, today marks the beginning of an extraordinary, lifelong partnership. The scarlet and gray faithful can rest assured: their beloved center truly is “here forever.”
