Chip Kelly Joins Las Vegas Raiders as Offensive Coordinator

HENDERSON, Nev. — Chip Kelly is returning to the NFL as the offensive coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders, sources confirmed to ESPN on Sunday. The 61-year-old coach, who most recently served as Ohio State‘s offensive coordinator, will join new head coach Pete Carroll‘s staff.

Kelly brings a wealth of experience, having spent the past seven years in college football, including a successful stint at Ohio State where he helped lead the Buckeyes to a national championship. Under his guidance, Ohio State averaged 35.7 points per game during the 2024 season, culminating in a 34-23 victory over Notre Dame in the title game.

Prior to his time at Ohio State, Kelly was the head coach at UCLA for six seasons, compiling a 35-34 record. His last NFL head coaching role was with the San Francisco 49ers in 2016, where he went 2-14. Kelly also coached the Philadelphia Eagles from 2013 to 2015, leading them to a 26-21 record and one playoff appearance.

Carroll, who was introduced as the Raiders’ head coach last week, emphasized the importance of assembling a diverse coaching staff. “I’m really looking for people that have been with me, that understand the philosophy to some extent,” Carroll said. “I also want guys that have never been around me before so they have to learn what we’re all about.”

Kelly’s arrival marks a significant addition to the Raiders’ coaching staff, which retained defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and special teams coordinator Tom McMahon. The Raiders are looking to rebuild after a disappointing 4-13 season under former head coach Antonio Pierce.

Kelly’s offensive expertise will be crucial as the Raiders address key needs at running back and quarterback. The team holds the No. 6 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and has over $108 million in salary cap space, providing ample resources for a turnaround.

Known for his innovative play-calling, Kelly has a history of success at both the college and professional levels. His Oregon teams from 2009 to 2012 were known for their high-tempo offense, which revolutionized college football. Kelly’s ability to adapt his strategies to the NFL will be closely watched as he takes on his new role in Las Vegas.

Kelly’s departure from Ohio State leaves a void in the Buckeyes’ coaching staff, as he becomes the third key assistant to leave this offseason. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and offensive line coach Justin Frye have also moved on to new roles.

In Las Vegas, Kelly will have the opportunity to work with talented players like tight end Brock Bowers, the No. 7 pick in the 2024 draft, and wide receiver Davante Adams, who recently recorded his first 1,000-yard receiving season with the Raiders.

Kelly’s return to the NFL is seen as a pivotal moment in his career, as he aims to bring his innovative offensive strategies to a Raiders team in need of a fresh start.