Shortly after news broke that Dan Quinn would be the next head coach of the Washington Commanders, names surfaced for potential coordinators. One surprising name that’s emerged as an offensive coordinator candidate is UCLA head coach Chip Kelly, per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.
College football’s landscape is changing, leading to college coaches considering the NFL in various capacities. Jim Harbaugh won a national championship in January at Michigan before returning to the NFL as the Los Angeles Chargers’ head coach.
Jeff Hafley left Boston College to become the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers earlier in the week. Kelly could follow suit.
Kelly rose to notoriety as an offensive guru, leading the Oregon Ducks to national prominence with three straight 12-win seasons from 2010-2012 before bolting for the NFL.
In the NFL, Kelly was head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles for three seasons and the San Francisco 49ers in 2016. Despite being heavily criticized for his stint in Philadelphia by media and former players, Kelly produced a top-5 offense each of his first two seasons.
Kelly helped usher in the read option to the pro level. He has been the head coach of the UCLA Bruins for the last six seasons, compiling a 35-34 record.
Chip Kelly has eyed a return to the NFL, interviewing twice with the Las Vegas Raiders for their offensive coordinator opening. The Commanders will be filling out soon-to-be head coach Dan Quinn’s staff. Chip Kelly is now a candidate to join as the play-caller of their offense.
