Urban Meyer returns to Columbus to help Ohio State NIL foundation

Urban Meyer is back in the collegiate athletics world in Columbus. On Wednesday, THE Foundation — a collective founded to help further Ohio State NIL opportunities — announced Meyer is joining their board of directors.

“We proudly welcome @CoachUrbanMeyer to our board,” tweeted THE Foundation. “Urban has 3 Nat’l Championships on his resume, including the ’14 title w/OSU. He’s recognized as one of the best recruiters in college football history. Urban looks forward to seeing future success for OSU and local charities.”

The three-time national championship-winning coach led the Buckeyes from 2012-2018. However, he’s stayed out of the public eye recently, since being fired by the Jacksonville Jaguars in his first foray into the NFL.

Moreover, THE Foundation was founded by Columbus real estate mogul Brian Schottenstein, and former Buckeyes star quarterback Cardale Jones. Created in January, THE Foundation has a goal of creating “the biggest NIL charitable fund in the country,” according to Schottenstein.

Continuing, Schottenstein told the Columbus Dispatch that he’s elated to have Meyer join him in the venture.

“There isn’t a better person to have on the board than Coach Urban Meyer,” Schottenstein said. “It goes without saying that he’s one of the greatest recruiters of student-athletes and coaches of all time. I appreciate his support and friendship.”

Additionally, former Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett is also joining Meyer on the board.

“We’re excited to welcome @JT_theQB4th to our board!” tweeted THE Foundation on Thursday. “J.T. is the winningest quarterback in Ohio State history. Barrett’s strong leadership and understanding of OSU student-athletes makes him a great fit for THE Foundation. Welcome to the team J.T.”

As you can see, THE Foundation is bringing in multiple Ohio State and Columbus area stars to attempt to improve the NIL world. With a brand as big as the Buckeyes, the sky is the limit for the foundation.

According to their website, THE Foundation officially launches on March 31, 2022.