According to reports, Chip Kelly, the current offensive coordinator for Ohio State, has emerged as a prime candidate for multiple offensive coordinator positions in the NFL. This renewed interest comes on the heels of Ohio State’s recent national championship victory, which has reignited discussions about Kelly’s potential return to the professional ranks. But how receptive is he to making that leap?
With the NFL’s head coaching vacancies nearly filled, attention is shifting to the open offensive coordinator roles. Several teams are eyeing Kelly as a top contender. Sources indicate that both the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Houston Texans are particularly interested in Kelly for their OC positions. Additionally, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could also be a potential landing spot for the seasoned coach. The question remains: will Kelly take the plunge back into the NFL?
Kelly’s NFL Background
Kelly’s history with the NFL is a mixed bag. He last coached in the league with the San Francisco 49ers during the 2016 season, where he struggled to find success, ending with a dismal 2-14 record. This performance tied the franchise’s lowest win total, leading to his swift replacement by Kyle Shanahan. Despite this setback, Kelly’s experience as a head coach at both the college and NFL levels gives him a unique perspective that many teams find appealing.
Before returning to Ohio State, Kelly had not served as an offensive coordinator since his time at Oregon in 2008. He had a stint as the head coach at UCLA, but he ultimately decided that returning to a more hands-on role in football was his priority. This shift has proven beneficial for Ohio State, where Kelly has been able to leverage his NFL-style mindset to great effect.
The Impact of Kelly at Ohio State
Kelly’s return to Ohio State has been nothing short of transformative. His expertise has not only elevated the Buckeyes’ offensive game but has also provided head coach Ryan Day with valuable support. After their national championship win over Notre Dame, Day expressed his gratitude for Kelly’s mentorship, stating, “You know, for him to come and leave the head coaching position, to come work with me meant a lot. He has just a great feel for the game.”
This collaboration has allowed Day to broaden his focus, spending more time with the defensive unit while still being actively involved in the offense. The result? A cohesive team that has thrived under pressure, showcasing the benefits of Kelly’s experience and strategic mindset.
What Lies Ahead for Chip Kelly?
The prospect of Kelly returning to the NFL raises intriguing questions. Would he be willing to leave the comfort of Ohio State, where he has found success and stability? Winning the national championship has certainly increased his stock, but it remains unclear how he feels about the potential transition.
As the NFL gears up for the upcoming season, teams are eager to fill their offensive coordinator vacancies. With the Jaguars and Texans both having recently fired their offensive coordinators, they are looking for innovative minds to lead their offenses. Kelly’s track record and experience make him a compelling candidate for these roles.
Potential Landing Spots
In addition to Jacksonville and Houston, Tampa Bay could also be in the mix for Kelly’s services. The Buccaneers recently saw Liam Coen depart for the Jaguars’ head coaching position, leaving them in search of a new offensive leader. The opportunity to work with talented players and develop a high-powered offense could be enticing for Kelly, especially given his background.
Moreover, Kelly’s ability to recruit top talent at Ohio State gives him a unique advantage. He understands how to build a winning program and could bring that same philosophy to an NFL team. His experience at the college level, coupled with his previous NFL stint, positions him well to make an impact wherever he lands.
The Bigger Picture
As the NFL continues to evolve, teams are increasingly looking for coaches who can adapt to the fast-paced, dynamic nature of the game. Kelly’s offensive strategies, honed during his time at Oregon and now at Ohio State, could be just what teams need to revitalize their offenses.
In a league where scoring is paramount, having a coach with a proven track record of developing explosive offenses is invaluable. Kelly’s innovative approach and deep understanding of the game could be the key to unlocking a team’s potential.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Chip Kelly. Will he stay at Ohio State, where he has found success and stability, or will he take a chance on a return to the NFL? The excitement surrounding his potential move is palpable, and fans of college football and the NFL alike are eager to see what the future holds for this talented coach. The stage is set, and the possibilities are endless.
