C.J. Barnett | Assistant Athletic Director for Player Development and Team Security

C.J. Barnett

Position:
Assistant Athletic Director for Player Development and Team Security
Alma Mater:
Ohio State '13

C.J. Barnett joined the Ohio State football staff in 2021 as Assistant AD for Player Development and Team Security and has been in that role since returning to the program. He works to support the Buckeyes’ student-athletes off the field, helping reinforce the program’s standards and prepare players for life beyond football.

Barnett came to Ohio State after serving as a police officer with the City of Columbus Division of Police from 2017-21. His career in law enforcement followed a stint in the NFL with the New York Giants, adding to a background that blends professional football experience, public service and leadership.

A former Buckeye standout from 2009-12, Barnett was a three-year starter, four-year letterwinner and team captain in the Ohio State secondary. He played 44 career games with 36 starts, earned third-team All-America honors as a senior and recorded 224 tackles and eight interceptions during his career.

Originally from Dayton, Barnett graduated from Northmont High School in 2009 and earned his degree from Ohio State in 2013 in sociology and criminology.