Ohio State has named Ross Bjork, the current athletic director at Texas A&M, as the successor to Gene Smith, who will retire effective June 30.
Bjork, who has been at Texas A&M since 2019, is set to take over one of the most prestigious athletic director roles in the country. Smith, a highly influential figure in college athletics, has been involved in various committees and served as the chair of the Men’s Division I Basketball Committee.
In a statement, Smith expressed confidence in Bjork’s ability to have an immediate impact on the Ohio State community. The transition process will be a collaborative effort to ensure a smooth handover with student-athletes, coaches, staff, and university leaders.
Bjork, who succeeded Scott Woodward at Texas A&M, notably extended former football coach Jimbo Fisher’s contract with a $95 million extension in 2021. However, Fisher was fired in 2023, just two seasons into the extension, resulting in a substantial buyout payment of over $75 million.
Taking on the Ohio State role, Bjork inherits a football program with high expectations, surpassing those of Texas A&M. Despite Ohio State’s 11-2 record in 2023, the team faced challenges, including a loss to Michigan for the third consecutive season and a defeat in the Cotton Bowl. With key players returning and promising additions, Ohio State aims for a playoff berth, emphasizing a crucial season for coach Ryan Day, who seeks to defeat Michigan for the first time since 2019.
