In a surprising move that has captured the attention of football fans across the country, Chip Kelly, renowned for his coaching prowess, has accepted the role of offensive coordinator with the Las Vegas Raiders. This decision comes on the heels of an impressive season at Ohio State, where Kelly guided the Buckeyes to a national championship.
Kelly’s Journey to the Raiders
At 61, Chip Kelly brings a wealth of experience to the Raiders. His coaching career includes stints with Ohio State, UCLA, and the NFL. Many wonder what led him to leave Ohio State so soon after achieving such success. His last NFL coaching role dates back to his time with the San Francisco 49ers in 2016, making this a notable return to the league.
A New Coaching Staff
Pete Carroll, the newly appointed head coach of the Raiders, has welcomed Kelly as part of his revamped coaching staff. This strategic hire wraps up Carroll’s recruitment for key positions within the team following a tough season, where the Raiders ended with a disappointing 4-13 record. With Kelly’s arrival, excitement is brewing among players and fans alike, with hopes that his innovative strategies will breathe new life into the Raiders’ offense.
Success and Expectations
Kelly isn’t arriving at the Raiders empty-handed. His winning track record includes leading Ohio State to a national championship. His tactics focused on a fast-paced offense helped propel the Buckeyes to a successful season, and fans are eager to see how these techniques will adapt to the Raiders’ roster, which boasts stars like first-team All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers.
What This Means for Ohio State
With Kelly’s departure, the Buckeyes now face the challenge of finding a new offensive coordinator. The coaching landscape is shifting, and as fans may worry about the effectiveness of their team in the upcoming season, various candidates are lining up to fill Kelly’s influential role. Ohio State has a strong foundation, but they’ll need the right leader to keep the momentum going.
Potential Names to Fill the Void
Several candidates have emerged as potential successors for Kelly at Ohio State, including:
- Brian Hartline, Ohio State’s co-offensive coordinator
- Will Stein, Oregon’s offensive coordinator
- Joe Moorhead, head coach at Akron
- Mike Shanahan, Indiana’s OC
- Jeff Nixon, Syracuse’s OC
- Kevin Wilson, former Ohio State OC
The path forward is crucial for Ohio State, which ranked 12th in FBS scoring during Kelly’s tenure, and they will be looking for someone who can continue to build on that success.
League-Wide Impact
Kelly’s movement from Ohio State to the Raiders also highlights a broader trend in the NFL, where teams are eager to fill offensive coordinator vacancies with experienced professionals. The interest in Kelly from multiple franchises, including the Jaguars and Texans, emphasizes his high standing within the football community. As the league transitions through seasons, many believe his strategies will have a lasting impact on how offenses operate moving forward.
| Team | Status of OC Position |
|---|---|
| Las Vegas Raiders | Filled by Chip Kelly |
| Jaguars | Interviewing candidates |
| Texans | Considering options |
| Ohio State | Searching for replacement |
As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, with many changes shaking up the NFL, Chip Kelly’s association with the Raiders represents a significant chapter in his coaching journey, and it leaves an indelible mark on both Ohio State and the NFL.