Ryan Day addresses Kourt Williams' medical retirement: 'He'll always be welcome here'

Ohio State linebacker Kourt Williams announced his retirement from football on Wednesday following multiple surgeries during his time in Columbus.

Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day commented on Williams’ announcement and the impact he had — and will continue to have — with the Ohio State football program.

“When he first got here, you recognize very easily and very fast how disciplined he was,” Day said after practice on Thursday.” He was one of the first guys in a building, earned a leadership role on the team, but just was just kind of decimated with injuries and was strong in his faith.

“It was very hard for him to step away but even though he didn’t get a chance to play on the field as much, he did have a great leadership role, similar to Kam Babb and what he did here. A lot of the guys are going to miss him.”

It’s worth noting that Babb did suit up one more time following the multiple surgeries that would eventually cut his career short. He even caught a touchdown pass from CJ Stroud against Indiana.

However, it’s not all bad for Williams, who has been making the most of his time off the field since playing his last snap. Day revealed that Williams recently took an internship at the NFL league office in New York.

While he figures out what’s next for him, Day said that he’s always welcome in the building at Ohio State.

After tearing his ACL during his first year on campus, the 2020 four-star recruit logged a career-high 182 snaps during the 2021 season. He finished the year with 27 tackles, 21 solo tackles, four TFLs and one sack. The following season he was named a Buckeyes captain ahead of the 2022 season, but was limited to 42 total snaps. due to a shoulder injury.

Williams revealed the extent of his injuries during his retirement post on Instagram.

“4 knee surgeries & 3 shoulder surgeries,” Williams wrote in his Instagram post. “- In these 5 years, there’s been a lot of light and a lot of dark but I wouldn’t change a thing. It’s been a long time coming, and it’s time to move on. My family, teammates, and everybody who has stuck by me thought it all…I thank you & I love you. The Lord’s plan is always greater. I’ll see you soon.”

It’s unclear what his in-house role will specifically entail, but it’s clear following his internship that his interests remain on the gridiron.

The Buckeyes will kick off the 2024 regular season on Aug. 31 against Akron.