Coming Back to Where It Started: O.J. Santiago
11/14/2016 2:45:00 PM | Football
From Western Michigan Game Program
Student assistants make important contributions to college football staffs around the nation. But Kent State has one that stands out among them all in O.J. Santiago, a nine-year NFL veteran who started in a Super Bowl and still bleeds blue and gold.
The former Kent State tight end decided it was time to finish his degree after putting classes on hold prior to the 1997 NFL draft. A three-time Academic All-Mid-American Conference First Team selection, Santiago always took his studies seriously, but training for the next level often requires a full-time commitment.
"When it is time to decide, you come to realize you only get one shot," Santiago said of leaving school. "The NFL is a one-time thing and I always felt like I could come back to Kent State."
In the middle of his NFL career, Santiago even came back to Kent State for a semester in 2000, but was still a few credits shy of a degree. Although he continued to succeed in the classroom, it would be another 16 years until he returned with a commitment to finish.
Along with completing his degree requirements, Santiago has found a fit for himself in coaching as a student assistant.
"I had my eye on pro coaching and did some internships with the Arizona Cardinals," Santiago said. "And I thought 'let's get this degree done' and after talking with Coach Haynes and (Associate Athletic Director) Greg Glaus, I thought I could be a positive influence on this team."
Coming out of a MAC institution in the 1990s, very few people told Santiago he could play in the NFL. His level of competition was constantly questioned.
"I had a chip on my shoulder and when I got to training camp, I just kept competing," Santiago said. "I ended up being one of only seven (NFL) rookies to start opening day."
Santiago has brought that "dream big" mentality back to the turf at Dix Stadium.
In 40 years of college coaching, Special Teams Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach Dave McMichael has never had the benefit of a support-role member of Santiago's caliber. The moment McMichael first saw the impact Santiago had on players, he knew he had something special. Â
"O.J.'s passion for Kent State is infectious with our players," McMichael said.  "He's great to be around and he's had a real positive impact. He works the hours we do and does it in his little spot (inside the video coordinator's office). He does it because he loves Kent State. He has a real passion for this place."
Redshirt freshman tight end Chalfonte Butler is among several players who believe his skills are quickly developing with the help of Santiago's teachings. Â
"He started helping automatically," Butler said of Santiago's first day with the players. "On the field he's giving tips on head and hand placement and footsteps. And he got me to make sure I was studying my film early in the week so that you know what you're doing in every situation."
Butler also noted an important balance in Santiago's style.  His motivational voice can often be heard in practice and at games as he talks with a number of players, coaches and even officials. However, Santiago takes time out for one-on-one attention when needed and has shown the ability to cut the tension during pregame.
"He's certainly been a big help in the way our guys prepare," McMichael said. "He's introduced new ideas on how to take notes when watching film. And they listen to him because that's the way he prepared in the NFL. And when it comes to techniques we're teaching, they listen because it's what he used to be successful."
Santiago is quick to admit he didn't do everything right on daily basis as a player in college, especially in his younger years. So he makes it his mission to keep a watchful eye on all types of player preparation.
"There are so many things the present me would love to go back and tell the sophomore me," he said. "So anything I see with these guys that is not absolutely on point, I let them know right away."
Head Coach Paul Haynes knows Santiago's value at practice and doesn't ask for much back at the office. But Santiago loves to stay involved and can be found in every offensive and special teams meeting to help in any way he can.
"O.J. really knows the importance of special teams," McMichael said. "He's been a blessing. For what he's accomplished, he's very unassuming and so humble. His suggestions are well timed and he has the respect of this whole staff."Â
Santiago isn't the first former players to return to Kent State for a degree. Former quarterback Jose Davis, who spent his recruiting visit with Santiago, earned his bachelor's at age 38 this past August.
"I applaud anyone that comes back," Santiago said. "It's important for a number of reasons. You want to set an example for kids and I'm sure Jose agrees.
"The coaching part has been rewarding and really exciting to be a part of what's happening here."
