The Ohio State Buckeyes have hired former NFL scout Andy Howell as a college scout, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

Andy Howell spent 14 years in the NFL, primarily with the Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins, and New York Jets. His experience with player personnel and scouting will go a long way as the Buckeyes continue to look at ways to adapt to the current landscape in college football. In addition to his time in the NFL, Howell also served as Western Michigan’s Director of Player Personnel in 2015.

An Ohio native, Andy Howell grew up in the Cleveland area. Howell got his start in football while at Ohio University, serving as a student assistant for the Bobcats. Howell worked with the defensive line in practices and games for two years. After graduating with a degree in sports management, Howell moved on to the NFL level. Howell is now the 12th front office employee on Ohio State’s staff.

The addition of Andy Howell is just one of many staff changes made in 2026. Ohio State added former Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator and Atlanta Falcons head coach Arthur Smith this offseason to become the team’s offensive coordinator. In addition, Cortez Hankton also joined the staff after spending time with LSU and Georgia.

Both moves came after the loss of Brian Hartline, who is now the head coach at USF. The Buckeyes also added former Illinois special teams coach Robbie Discher in the same role. Discher replaced former special teams assistant Rob Keys, who now serves in an advisory role as a senior analyst.

As the college football landscape changes, it is paramount that teams adapt. Ryan Day and his staff are doing just that, and an extra set of eyes can go a long way in the pursuit of a national title in 2026.