The coaching staff at Ohio State University is about to get a significant financial boost, with a particular focus on the wide receivers position. Cortez Hankton, the newly appointed wide receivers coach, is set to earn a staggering $900,000 in 2026 and $1 million in 2027. But is this salary justified?
According to reports from The Columbus Dispatch, Hankton's salary surpasses several other assistant coaches at Ohio State. In his inaugural season, he will earn more than the quarterbacks, linebackers, running backs, and tight ends coaches. Interestingly, his salary matches that of the safeties and offensive line coaches, Matt Guerrieri and Tyler Bowen, who are both due for a raise to $1 million in 2026.
Hankton's contract is a two-year deal, signed on January 1st, to fill the shoes of Brian Hartline, who has moved on to become the head coach at USF with a substantial $3.5 million annual salary. Hartline's previous role at Ohio State earned him $2 million as the offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach.
The 44-year-old Hankton is no stranger to the big leagues, having earned $1 million in 2025 as LSU's wide receivers coach and co-offensive coordinator. Ohio State's performance-based bonuses could further sweeten the deal, offering up to 35% of his base salary if the team achieves national championship glory.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is this salary structure fair and balanced? With such a substantial salary, does Hankton's position carry more weight than others? And what does this mean for the future of coaching salaries in college football?
The world of college football coaching salaries is a fascinating and often debated topic. What are your thoughts on these figures? Do you think they are justified, or is there room for a different approach? Share your opinions in the comments below!
