BREAKING: Former Eagles HC Chip Kelly is being hired as the Raiders offensive coordinator, per reports..

Chip Kelly, renowned for his innovative offensive strategies, is set to return to the NFL as the Las Vegas Raiders’ offensive coordinator under newly appointed head coach Pete Carroll. This move marks Kelly’s first NFL role since 2016, following his tenure as head coach for the San Francisco 49ers.

Coaching Career Overview

Kelly’s coaching journey began in the early 1990s, with roles at Columbia University and the University of New Hampshire. He gained prominence as the offensive coordinator at Oregon from 2007 to 2008, where his up-tempo, no-huddle offense revolutionized college football. Promoted to head coach in 2009, Kelly led the Ducks to multiple Pac-12 championships and a berth in the 2011 BCS National Championship Game.

In 2013, Kelly transitioned to the NFL as head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, achieving a 10-6 record in each of his first two seasons. However, internal conflicts and a decline in team performance led to his dismissal in 2015. He briefly served as head coach for the San Francisco 49ers in 2016 but was let go after a 2-14 season.

Returning to college football, Kelly took the helm at UCLA in 2018, revitalizing the program with a focus on offensive efficiency. In 2024, he joined Ohio State University as offensive coordinator, where he played a pivotal role in the Buckeyes’ national championship victory.

Return to the NFL with the Raiders

Kelly’s appointment as the Raiders’ offensive coordinator is a significant development for the franchise. The Raiders have struggled offensively, ranking 27th in yards per game and 29th in scoring during the 2024 season. Kelly’s innovative approach is expected to inject new life into the team’s offensive schemes.

Under Kelly’s leadership, the Ohio State offense averaged 35.7 points per game, showcasing his ability to adapt and succeed at the collegiate level. His return to the NFL is anticipated to bring a fresh perspective and dynamic strategies to the Raiders’ offense.

Financial Commitment and Coaching Staff Stability

Owner Mark Davis has demonstrated a strong commitment to building a competitive team by investing significantly in the coaching staff. Kelly’s contract, reportedly worth $6 million annually, makes him the highest-paid offensive coordinator in the NFL. This investment underscores the Raiders’ dedication to achieving success and stability within the organization.

In addition to Kelly’s hiring, the Raiders have retained key defensive personnel, including defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and special teams coach Tom McMahon. This continuity is expected to provide a balanced and cohesive coaching environment, fostering growth and development across all facets of the team.

Looking Ahead

As the Raiders prepare for the upcoming season, the integration of Chip Kelly into the coaching staff is poised to be a transformative move. His extensive experience and innovative offensive philosophy are anticipated to revitalize the team’s performance, offering a promising outlook for the franchise’s future.