The offseason is typically a time for players to rest and recover, but this year, Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia required medical attention of his own. Over the weekend, he shared a personal health update, giving fans insight into what he dealt with during the break.
On May 9th, the former Detroit Lions head coach posted a photo from a hospital bed wearing a rigid cervical collar (neck brace). “Off-season repairs aren’t just for players. Massive thanks to Dr. Viljoen and the Neurological Specialty Care team for taking care of me. Incredible group! So blessed and thankful for you,” Patricia wrote on Instagram.
Even while wearing the heavy-duty neck brace, Patricia kept his trademark smile and signature hat. Although he did not disclose every medical detail, it is clear he underwent a major neck or spinal procedure to address long-standing physical wear and tear.
Ohio State’s own medical experts, specifically Dr. Stephanus Viljoen and the Neurological Specialty Care team, handled the surgery at the university’s medical network. Dr. Viljoen is a renowned neurosurgeon specializing in complex spine issues and neck pain.
Dealing with major physical setbacks is nothing new for Patricia. The Buckeyes’ defensive coordinator has endured significant health challenges before. In 2019, he suffered a severe lower-leg tendon injury requiring orthopedic surgery, leaving him on a scooter and crutches during training camp.
Recently, Patricia has focused heavily on his health, losing about 50 pounds before this operation. Dropping that much weight is a major lifestyle change and can alter how a person stands and the pressure on their spine. This recent neck surgery appears to be the next logical step in his ongoing journey to improve overall well-being.
Based on the offseason schedule, the procedure was intentionally scheduled for early May. This allows a structured three-to-four-month recovery before the intense college football season begins. Patricia also just signed a three-year contract extension worth over $11 million ($3.75 million for 2026) to stay with the Buckeyes after leading the nation’s best defense. Fans can expect him back on the sidelines, fully recovered and ready to coach, by training camp in August.
Year 2 Under Matt Patricia
Under Patricia’s second season as defensive coordinator, Ohio State’s defense is projected to be immensely talented but will look entirely different due to a massive roster overhaul. The defense is coming off a stellar season where Patricia’s system ranked No. 1 nationally in scoring defense (8.2 points per game) and total defense (213.5 yards per game).
The Buckeyes lost seven of their best defensive starters to the NFL Draft, including Caleb Downs, Davison Igbinosun, and linebacker Sonny Styles. Thankfully, Ohio State’s roster is loaded with young, hungry talent waiting for their chance. Veteran Kenyatta Jackson Jr. handles one side of the edge, while North Carolina transfer Beau Atkinson locks down the opposite side after an impressive spring game.
At defensive tackle, Eddrick Houston and Alabama transfer James Smith fill the interior. The Buckeyes have younger players at linebacker, including Payton Pierce and Christian Alliegro. The back end features highly anticipated young cornerbacks like Devin Sanchez and Jermaine Mathews Jr.
This time around, Patricia’s entire defensive coaching staff returns alongside him. Legendary defensive line coach Larry Johnson, secondary coach Tim Walton, and linebackers coach James Laurinaitis have signed contract extensions to stay in Columbus. Even with the early-season drop-off, expectations remain high for a top-five national defense when everything is said and done.