GAINESVILLE, FL – June 28, 2025 – In a move that sent ripples through the highly competitive Southeastern Conference, Florida Gators Quarterbacks Coach Ryan O’Hara has reportedly rejected a staggering $8 million offer from the LSU Tigers, choosing instead to remain a vital part of Head Coach Billy Napier’s staff in Gainesville. This decisive action by one of college football’s most promising young offensive minds underscores a strong belief in the trajectory of the Florida program and signals a commitment that transcends immediate financial gain.
The aggressive pursuit by the LSU Tigers, a perennial SEC powerhouse, highlights their urgent desire to reinforce their coaching staff, particularly in the critical quarterback development realm. Despite finishing the 2024 season with a respectable 9-4 record and a bowl victory, LSU’s leadership under Coach Brian Kelly is consistently looking to optimize every aspect of their program to contend for national championships. Their willingness to present an $8 million offer for a position coach speaks volumes about the premium placed on quarterback development and the strategic importance of that role in the modern game. LSU’s current offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, Joe Sloan, has been instrumental in developing high-profile quarterbacks, including a Heisman Trophy winner. The pursuit of O’Hara suggests a desire to either complement or potentially even replace existing talent in the quarterback development space.
Ryan O’Hara, who was promoted to Assistant Coach and Quarterbacks Coach for the Florida Gators in March 2025 after serving as an offensive analyst for the quarterbacks since 2022, has rapidly garnered a reputation as an elite developer of signal-callers. His coaching journey under Billy Napier dates back to their time at Louisiana (2018-2021), where O’Hara contributed to four consecutive Sun Belt West Division titles and two conference championships. During that period, he played a crucial role in the development of quarterback Levi Lewis, who became the Ragin’ Cajuns’ first-ever 3,000-yard passer.
More recently, at Florida, O’Hara has been credited with the impressive growth of true freshman quarterback DJ Lagway in the 2024 season. Lagway, who took over full-time due to injury, exceeded expectations, finishing with Freshman All-America honors and ranking second nationally in yards per pass attempt. O’Hara also contributed to the development of Anthony Richardson, a fourth overall NFL Draft pick in 2023, and Graham Mertz, a sixth-round pick in 2025. This consistent success in molding quarterbacks from various backgrounds and skill sets has made O’Hara a highly coveted commodity across the collegiate landscape.
For the Florida Gators, O’Hara’s decision to turn down such a substantial offer is an enormous win for Head Coach Billy Napier and the program’s long-term stability. The Gators finished the 2024 season with an 8-5 overall record, showing flashes of offensive brilliance, particularly with the emergence of their young quarterback. Retaining O’Hara ensures continuity in the development of their signal-callers and reinforces the belief that the program is on an upward trajectory. His expertise is considered invaluable as the Gators continue to build their offensive identity under Napier.
“Ryan O’Hara is an exceptional coach and an even better person,” said Head Coach Billy Napier. “His dedication to our players and his understanding of the quarterback position are second to none. His decision to remain a Gator, despite other significant opportunities, speaks volumes about his commitment to our vision here in Gainesville. He is a critical part of our staff, and we are fortunate to have him shaping the future of our quarterback room.”
O’Hara’s ability to maximize quarterback performance and his deep familiarity with Napier’s offensive system were undoubtedly factors in his decision. The continuity allows for a seamless progression in player development and offensive scheme implementation, which is paramount as Florida prepares for continued battles in the highly competitive SEC. His continued presence provides a consistent voice and approach for both current and future Gators quarterbacks.
The rejection by O’Hara leaves the LSU Tigers to re-evaluate their strategy for the quarterback coaching position. While they possess a strong coaching staff, the aggressive pursuit of O’Hara indicates a specific need or desire they were hoping to address. This scenario highlights the fierce competition among elite programs for top coaching talent, where not even an $8 million offer is a guaranteed draw, particularly when a coach is deeply invested in their current project.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Florida Gators to see how Ryan O’Hara’s continued leadership in the quarterback room translates into on-field success. His commitment underscores the growing momentum in Gainesville and provides a significant boost to a program striving to return to national prominence. For LSU, the search for strategic coaching additions may continue, a stark reminder that even with substantial resources, securing the perfect fit in the coaching carousel can be a complex and challenging endeavor.
