'Lean Into It!' Former Bama QB Thinks Ohio State Should Embrace NIL Narrative

Originally posted on FanNation Buckeyes Now
By Caleb Spinner | Last updated 1/25/24

The Ohio State Buckeyes have been throwing money around this offseason, trying to ready their roster for a national championship run.

Some have been critical of the Buckeyes for using this strategy, including Lane Kiffin. The Ole Miss Rebels coach posted an article on social media alleging Ohio State had spent upwards of $13 million on its 2024 roster already, with no signs of stopping.

However, former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Greg McElroy seems to be of the belief that the Buckeyes are not spending enough. McElroy encouraged Ohio State to keep the cash flowing and added he was "baffled" other programs were not doing the same.

"If you have outrageously deep pockets, if you have tremendous booster support," McElroy said. "Man, lean into it."

McElroy acknowledged Ohio State has never had trouble bringing in some of the biggest names available every offseason. But, the Buckeyes are now in a position to keep some of that talent around because of the funding provided by their numerous Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) collectives.

"If you look at what's happened with the NIL support that Ohio State has garnered in the last two weeks, it's off-the-charts good," McElroy said. "They've always been in a great position to land top players. But now they're able to retain future NFL draft picks to stay another year because the NIL support and roster retention is so significant."

Several Crimson Tide players have transferred to Ohio State following the retirement of long-time head coach Nick Saban.

Offensive lineman Seth McLaughlin, defensive back Caleb Downs and quarterback Julian Sayin are some of the most recent former Alabama players to make a new home with the Scarlet and Gray.

Only time will tell if the money Ohio State has been spending on recruiting talent will pay off with a national championship.

This article first appeared on FanNation Buckeyes Now and was syndicated with permission.

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