Is Cortez Hankton's New Salary a Game-Changer for Ohio State's Coaching Staff?
In a move that's sure to spark conversations across college football circles, Ohio State's newly appointed wide receivers coach, Cortez Hankton, is set to earn a substantial salary in the coming years. According to documents obtained by The Columbus Dispatch's Joey Kaufman, Hankton will pocket $900,000 in his inaugural season (2026) and see a bump to $1 million in 2027. But here's where it gets interesting: this salary places Hankton ahead of several other assistant coaches at Ohio State, including quarterbacks coach Billy Fessler, linebackers coach James Laurinaitis, running backs coach Carlos Locklyn, and tight ends coach Keenan Bailey.
A Closer Look at the Numbers
To put Hankton's compensation into perspective, let's compare it to the 2025 assistant coach salaries at Ohio State. His $900,000 salary matches those of safeties coach Matt Guerrieri and offensive line coach Tyler Bowen, though their salaries are slated to increase to $1 million in 2026. However, it's worth noting that Hankton's salary surpasses that of several other coaches, which might raise eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. And this is the part most people miss: the salary structure could be a strategic move by Ohio State to attract top-tier coaching talent, especially after losing Brian Hartline to USF, where he'll earn a whopping $3.5 million annually as head coach.
The Bigger Picture
Hankton's two-year contract, signed on January 1, comes at a pivotal time for Ohio State. With Hartline's departure, the university has yet to announce a replacement for the offensive coordinator position. As for Hankton, his $900,000 salary is a significant increase from his previous role at LSU, where he earned $1 million in 2025 as the Tigers' wide receivers coach and co-offensive coordinator. But it's not just about the base salary; like other Ohio State assistant coaches, Hankton is eligible for performance-based bonuses, including:
- Up to 35% of his base salary if Ohio State wins the national championship
- Up to 12% of his base salary if the Buckeyes win the Big Ten Championship Game
A Controversial Question
Here's a thought-provoking question for our readers: Is Ohio State's investment in Hankton a wise decision, or is it a sign of escalating coaching salaries in college football? With the sport's landscape constantly evolving, it's essential to consider the long-term implications of such financial commitments. As we watch Hankton's tenure unfold, one thing is certain: his performance will be under the microscope, and the results could shape the future of coaching salaries at Ohio State and beyond. What's your take on this development? Do you think Hankton's salary is justified, or is it a step too far? Let us know in the comments!
