James Richard Laurinaitis is a distinguished American football coach and former player. Currently serving as an assistant linebackers coach for Ohio State since 2023, Laurinaitis brings his wealth of experience to the coaching realm. As a player, he made a significant impact as a linebacker for the St. Louis Rams and the New Orleans Saints in the National Football League (NFL). Laurinaitis's journey began in college football at Ohio State, where he garnered acclaim as a three-time consensus All-American and received numerous awards. In 2009, he was drafted by the Rams in the second round of the NFL Draft.