Ohio State Hires Virginia Tech’s Tyler Bowen as New Offensive Line Coach

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio State has reportedly hired Tyler Bowen, Virginia Tech‘s offensive coordinator, as its new offensive line coach, according to multiple sources. The move comes as the Buckeyes seek to fill key coaching vacancies following recent departures.

Bowen, 35, has spent the past three seasons as Virginia Tech’s offensive coordinator, where he also coached tight ends in 2022 and quarterbacks for the last two years. His hiring brings significant offensive expertise to Ohio State’s coaching staff, which is still searching for a new offensive coordinator to replace Chip Kelly.

“Big get for Ryan Day… sources tell FootballScoop Ohio State is hiring Virginia Tech offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen as new OL coach at Ohio State,” tweeted FootballScoop on February 5, 2025. The news was later confirmed by CBS Sports and 247Sports.

Before his tenure at Virginia Tech, Bowen served as the tight ends coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2021 and held the same role at Penn State from 2018 to 2020. At Penn State, he also served as co-offensive coordinator in 2020 and was instrumental in recruiting standout players like All-American left tackle Olu Fashanu and tight end Tyler Warren.

Bowen’s coaching career began with stints as an offensive line coach at Fordham (2015-16) and Maryland (2017). His diverse experience across college and professional football makes him a valuable addition to Ohio State’s staff.

Meanwhile, Ohio State continues its search for a new defensive coordinator following Jim Knowles‘ departure to Penn State. Current wide receivers coach Brian Hartline is rumored to be the leading candidate to replace Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator, potentially paving the way for offensive analyst Billy Fessler to take over as quarterbacks coach.

Bowen’s departure leaves Virginia Tech in need of a new offensive coordinator as the Hokies prepare for the 2025 season. The program recently hired a new defensive coordinator, signaling a period of transition for the team.