Buckeye Loyalty Prevails: Carlos Locklyn Rejects Staggering Penn State Offer
COLUMBUS, OH – In a move that has sent ripples of surprise and admiration across the fiercely competitive landscape of college football coaching, Ohio State’s esteemed running backs coach, Carlos Locklyn, has reportedly turned down a monumental $2 million offer from perennial Big Ten rival, Penn State. The audacious bid from Happy Valley aimed to lure Locklyn away from Columbus, signifying the Nittany Lions’ aggressive pursuit of top-tier coaching talent. However, Locklyn’s decision underscores a profound commitment to the Buckeyes and the vision laid out by head coach Ryan Day.
Sources close to the situation, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of coaching negotiations, confirmed that the offer from Penn State was unprecedented for an assistant coach in Locklyn’s position, especially given his relatively recent arrival in Columbus. The reported $2 million package would have elevated Locklyn into the upper echelon of assistant coaching salaries nationally, a testament to his burgeoning reputation as one of the most effective and innovative running backs coaches in the sport.
Locklyn, who joined the Ohio State staff in April 2024 after a successful stint at Oregon, quickly established himself as a vital cog in the Buckeyes’ offensive machine. Under his guidance, Ohio State’s running back room, featuring a dynamic duo of TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, thrived, becoming a powerful force in the team’s journey to a national championship. His energetic coaching style, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to foster strong relationships with his players have earned him widespread acclaim.
The Penn State offer wasn’t merely about money; it was a clear signal of their intent to bolster their offensive staff with a proven developer of talent. The Nittany Lions, always on the hunt to close the gap with Ohio State in the Big Ten, saw Locklyn as a critical piece to elevate their ground game and recruiting efforts in a key position group. The proposition presented a significant career advancement opportunity, potentially offering a more prominent role or a path to coordinator duties in the future.
For Locklyn, the decision was undoubtedly complex. A husband and father of twins, the financial security offered by Penn State was undeniably attractive. In a profession known for its instability and constant movement, a contract of that magnitude provides a level of peace of mind that is rare. He has a history of building successful running back rooms, from his time at Western Kentucky and Oregon, where he developed NFL talent like Bucky Irving. His track record speaks for itself, and that made him a prime target for rival programs.
However, Locklyn’s commitment to Ohio State runs deep. Upon his arrival, he spoke passionately about the opportunity to coach at a program with the Buckeyes’ history and tradition. He embraced the challenge of working with elite talent and contributing to a team with national championship aspirations year in and year out. His energy is infectious, and he has quickly become a beloved figure among the players and within the Ohio State community.
“Coach Locklyn brings a different kind of intensity,” commented a current Ohio State player, who wished to remain unnamed. “He pushes us hard, but he genuinely cares about us as men, not just as football players. He’s built something special with the running backs, and we all trust his vision.”
The reported rejection sends a powerful message across college football. In an era where coaching carousel rumors are constant and financial incentives often dictate movement, Locklyn’s decision highlights a growing trend of coaches prioritizing fit, stability, and the pursuit of championships over simply the highest bidder. It speaks to the strong culture Ryan Day has cultivated in Columbus, a culture that clearly resonates with his staff.
While Penn State will undoubtedly pivot to other candidates, this public rejection serves as a stark reminder of the uphill battle they face in consistently competing with Ohio State for both talent on the field and talent on the sidelines. For Ohio State, it’s a significant victory, affirming the strength of their program and their ability to retain highly sought-after coaching minds.
Carlos Locklyn’s journey has been marked by a steady ascent through the coaching ranks, from high school offensive coordinator to a respected position coach at the Power Five level. His dedication to his craft and his genuine passion for developing young athletes have earned him this considerable attention. By turning down a life-altering sum, Locklyn has solidified his place as a coach deeply invested in the Ohio State Buckeyes, signaling that for some, the value of a shared mission and a winning culture transcends even the most jaw-dropping financial offers. In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, Locklyn’s choice stands as a testament to the enduring power of loyalty and belief.
