Ohio State Athletics has announced a groundbreaking corporate partnership with JPMorganChase, naming Chase the official bank sponsor and the first-ever jersey patch partner across all 36 varsity sports programs.
The multiyear agreement is reportedly worth nearly $17 million annually, making it one of the largest non-apparel corporate sponsorships in college sports history. The reported value also exceeds some jersey patch agreements in the NBA.
The partnership represents a major milestone in the continued commercialization of college athletics following the NCAA’s approval of commercial uniform patches.
Details of the Ohio State-JPMorgan Chase Jersey Patch Sponsorship
The Chase logo will appear on the front of uniforms for every Ohio State varsity team, including:
- Football
- Men’s Basketball
- Women’s Basketball
- All Olympic sports
On Ohio State football uniforms, the Chase patch will be positioned above the Big Ten logo.
The partnership extends beyond jersey branding and includes:
- Expanded JPMorganChase branding inside Ohio Stadium
- Increased visibility at the Schottenstein Center
- Presenting sponsorship of the new 1922 Club at Ohio Stadium
JPMorganChase says the agreement builds upon its long-standing presence in central Ohio, where it employs more than 18,000 people and has hired over 1,700 Ohio State alumni during the past five years.
“JPMorganChase is a global brand with deep roots in Ohio, making them a natural partner that shares our commitment to innovation, excellence and long-term community impact. Together, we have built a comprehensive and historic partnership that reflects the strong commercial strength of the Ohio State Athletics identity.”
— Ohio State Athletic Director Ross Bjork
Financial Impact of Ohio State’s Jersey Patch Deal
Industry sources indicate the agreement will generate nearly $17 million annually for Ohio State, although some reports estimate the value at more than $15 million per year.
That figure:
- More than doubles many existing college jersey patch agreements.
- Establishes one of the richest sponsorship deals in college athletics.
- Rivals or exceeds several professional sports jersey patch partnerships.
Learfield, which brokered the agreement through Ohio State Sports Properties, had previously estimated football and men’s basketball jersey patches could command between $500,000 and $12 million annually.
Ohio State’s reported deal significantly surpasses that range.
How the Deal Compares Across College Sports
More than 25 schools have reportedly secured jersey patch partners before the 2026 season, including several Big Ten rivals.
However, Ohio State’s agreement is widely viewed as setting a new benchmark for college athletics sponsorship revenue.
The deal also demonstrates how elite college athletic brands are increasingly competing with professional franchises for major corporate sponsorships.
NIL Opportunities and Student-Athlete Benefits
The partnership also emphasizes support for Ohio State student-athletes.
Chase plans to provide:
- Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) opportunities
- Financial literacy education
- Advisory services
- Career development resources
- Post-graduation financial planning
The goal is to better prepare Buckeye athletes for success beyond college sports while strengthening Ohio State’s recruiting and athlete retention efforts.
“Ohio State leads the way in college athletics, and we’re proud to support the student-athletes and fans who power that tradition. From financial education and resources for student-athletes to exclusive fan experiences and gameday offers, this partnership brings Chase’s unique capabilities to the Ohio State community—on campus, in the stands and beyond.”
— Jennifer Roberts, CEO of Chase Consumer Banking
What Buckeyes Fans Will Receive
Chase customers will gain access to several exclusive Ohio State benefits, including:
- Special ticket offers
- Gameday discounts
- Premium fan experiences
- Exclusive promotions
- Additional stadium perks
The partnership also expands educational initiatives through:
- Classroom presentations
- Mentorship opportunities
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career pathways
When Will Ohio State Debut the Chase Jersey Patch?
The Buckeyes are expected to wear the Chase-branded uniforms for the first time during their 2026 season opener.
Game Details
- Opponent: Ball State
- Date: September 5, 2026
- Venue: Ohio Stadium
The uniforms are also expected to feature updated versions of Ohio State’s iconic Buckeye stripe design.
What This Means for College Athletics
Ohio State’s landmark agreement arrives during a transformative era in college sports, where schools continue searching for new revenue sources amid NIL and revenue-sharing changes.
Commercial jersey patch sponsorships have quickly become one of the most valuable assets available to athletic departments.
By securing an agreement reportedly worth nearly $17 million annually, Ohio State further cements its position as one of the most marketable and financially powerful brands in college athletics.
Final Thoughts
The Ohio State-JPMorganChase partnership is about far more than adding a logo to a jersey.
The agreement provides:
- Significant new athletic department revenue
- Expanded NIL opportunities
- Financial education for student-athletes
- Exclusive benefits for Buckeye fans
- Stronger academic and career partnerships
Beginning with the 2026 season, Buckeyes fans will see the Chase logo across Ohio State athletics as the university enters a new era of commercial partnerships and student-athlete support.