Ohio State will enshrine former coach Jim Tressel in the Ohio Stadium Ring of Honor on September 5, 2026, when the Buckeyes open their season against Ball State. Tressel, who led Ohio State from 2001-2010, joins an exclusive group with only Woody Hayes and Paul Brown previously honored. His 2002 national championship and 106-23 record made him one of the program's most successful coaches.

Tressel's tenure included six Big Ten titles and 67 NFL draft picks, including 14 first-round selections. The recognition comes 16 years after his resignation amid an NCAA investigation into improper benefits. Ohio State vacated all 12 wins from the 2010 season, and Tressel received a five-year show-cause penalty. He did not coach again, instead serving in university administration roles.

Since leaving coaching, Tressel became lieutenant governor of Ohio in early 2025 and previously served as Youngstown State president from 2014-2023. He won four Division I-AA national titles as Youngstown State's coach before arriving in Columbus. The honor recognizes his on-field achievements while acknowledging the complicated legacy of his departure.

Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork praised Tressel's leadership and character development, noting he built championship teams while shaping young men into community leaders. Tressel called the recognition humbling, especially being honored alongside Hayes and Brown, whom he admired growing up.