Ohio State Buckeyes Lose Key Offensive Coach Marcus Johnson to Arkansas Razorbacks

The Ohio State Buckeyes are losing assistant coach Marcus Johnson. He is leaving for the University of Arkansas. The move was confirmed by multiple reports on Sunday, December 8, 2025.This is a significant staff departure for head coach Ryan Day. Johnson served as the assistant offensive line coach for just one season in Columbus. His exit follows offensive coordinator Brian Hartline’s move to become a head coach.

Reunion in Fayetteville Marks Swift Departure

Johnson will join new Arkansas head coach Ryan Silverfield. The two have a long history. They were teammates on the Minnesota Vikings during the 2008 NFL season.According to 247Sports, Johnson reported to offensive line coach Tyler Bowen at Ohio State. He also worked with other offensive staff members. His departure creates another vacancy for Coach Day to fill shortly after the Big Ten Championship game.Johnson brings extensive SEC experience to his new role. He was a standout offensive lineman for Ole Miss from 2001 to 2004. His coaching resume also includes stops at Mississippi State and Missouri.

Securing a Top Unit for the Razorbacks

In Arkansas, Johnson will co-lead a highly-rated unit. He will team up with fellow new hire Jeff Myers from Memphis. Together, they will take over the Razorbacks’ offensive line.This line is considered a team strength. Pro Football Network recently graded it as the second-best in the entire country. The new coaching duo will be tasked with maintaining that elite standard.For Ohio State, the search for a replacement begins immediately. The timing is challenging as the team prepares for the College Football Playoff. The Buckeyes are ranked No. 2 and have a first-round bye.

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The departure of Marcus Johnson to Arkansas represents a notable shift in the Buckeyes’ coaching structure. It underscores the constant personnel challenges in major college football. Ohio State must now find a capable successor to maintain its offensive line prowess.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Why did Marcus Johnson leave Ohio State?

Johnson is leaving for a reunion and a promotion. He is joining his former teammate, new Arkansas head coach Ryan Silverfield. The move offers him a co-lead role coaching a top-rated offensive line unit.

Q2: Who will replace Marcus Johnson at Ohio State?

As of now, no replacement has been named. Head coach Ryan Day will need to begin a search. The timing is tight with the team entering the College Football Playoff.

Q3: What is Marcus Johnson’s coaching background?

Johnson has a diverse resume. He coached at Purdue just before Ohio State. His career also includes stops at Duke, Mississippi State, and Missouri in the SEC.

Q4: How good is the Arkansas offensive line he will coach?

It is considered one of the best. Analysts at Pro Football Network recently ranked it as the second-best offensive line in the nation. Johnson will be tasked with keeping it at that high level.

Q5: Did other Ohio State coaches leave recently?

Yes. Offensive coordinator Brian Hartline recently left to become the head coach at the University of South Florida. Johnson’s departure is the second major hit to Coach Day’s offensive staff in a short period.