Ohio State’s tight end coach, Keenan Bailey, steps into the 2025 season with what may be the strongest group of tight ends he has ever worked with at the institution. The depth and talent within this position group is notable and could play a significant role in the Buckeyes’ pursuit of further championships.
After achieving success in the previous season with a national championship title, head coach Ryan Day now faces the challenge of building on that momentum. Ohio State’s upcoming rematch against Texas in the 2025 Cotton Bowl will serve as a crucial early test for the team as they transition to what is expected to be their next era. While some key players from last season remain, there are also new faces ready to make their mark and continue the program’s legacy.
Bailey has been pivotal in the transformation of the tight end position at Ohio State. Historically, the position has often taken a backseat in the offense, with tight ends typically underutilized compared to wide receivers and running backs. However, recent years have seen a notable shift. For instance, Cade Stover set a new benchmark for offensive tight ends, catching 36 passes in 2022 and 41 in 2023, leading to heightened expectations for the tight end role.
Bailey’s approach has included concrete messaging to his players, emphasizing the need to embrace their roles and elevate the standard of the position. This was exemplified by his assertive statement last year about the tight ends being perceived as the least talented group on the team, which he used as a rallying cry to motivate them to improve and take pride in their contributions.
As they embark on the 2025 season, the tight end position at Ohio State is no longer just a support role. With the addition of Purdue transfer Max Klare, who had an impressive 51 receptions for 685 yards last season, the expectations are even higher. His performance could signify a substantial change in how tight ends are viewed in the Buckeyes’ offense, with the potential to draw attention from NFL scouts.
Keenan Bailey’s commitment aligns with Ohio State’s tradition of excellence in all positions, with his vision of transforming the tight end group into a focal point of their offense. His confidence in achieving this goal signals a new chapter for the Buckeyes as they aim to redefine the narrative around tight ends, hoping to establish themselves firmly as “Tight End U.”
This positivity reflects a culture shift in how tight ends are integrated into an offensive strategy, and if successful, it could bring lasting impact to Ohio State’s recruiting appeal and performance on the field. The 2025 season promises to be an exciting time for the Buckeyes as they seek to leverage their newfound tight-end prowess alongside their established receiving corps.