Chip Kelly Returns to the NFL as Las Vegas Raiders’ Offensive Coordinator
After an eight-year absence from the NFL, Chip Kelly has made a significant return to the league. The former head coach, who last held the position with the San Francisco 49ers, has been appointed as the offensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders under new head coach Pete Carroll.
High-Paying Move
Kelly’s new role with the Raiders not only brings a trophy-worthy offensive mind back to the NFL but also marks him as the highest-paid coordinator in the league, earning a staggering $6 million per year.
A Career Recap
Kelly’s NFL coaching journey began with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2013, where he took the team to the playoffs in his first season. Despite his innovative approach, his tenure with the Eagles saw fluctuating success. Kelly was fired in 2015 after a power move in personnel management led to a losing season. He then moved to the San Francisco 49ers for the 2016 season, where his offensive output declined sharply, resulting in his dismissal following that season.
College Success
Before his NFL stints, Kelly made significant contributions to college football. He served as the head coach at Oregon from 2009 to 2013, where he led the team to a 46-7 record. Kelly’s success continued at UCLA, where he led the Bruins for seven years with a 35-34 record. His most recent coaching role was as the offensive coordinator at Ohio State, where he guided the team to a national championship in the 2023 season.
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Kelly’s NFL Impact
In his four seasons as an NFL head coach, Kelly recorded a 28-35 win-loss record. During this period, his offensive units ranked in the top five for points and yards per game twice, specifically in the 2013 and 2014 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite his offensive prowess, tactical missteps and unexpected losses often marred his NFL tenure.
Future Prospects
Kelly’s return to the NFL as a coordinator under Pete Carroll brings a renewed focus to the Raiders’ offensive strategy. Given his college success and previous NFL experience, Kelly is poised to bring innovative play-calling and offensive schemes back to the league. His ability to develop young quarterbacks and maximize players’ potential could significantly impact the Raiders’ performance.
Conclusion
Chip Kelly’s return to the NFL after an eight-year absence marks a new chapter for the Las Vegas Raiders. With his extensive coaching history, emphasis on offensive creativity, and significant college success, Kelly is expected to revitalize the Raiders’ offense. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how Kelly fares in his new role and whether his innovative tactics can once again redefine the NFL landscape.
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