Chip Kelly is expected to be one of the hottest head coaching candidates after the NFL regular season ends, and reports say the Philadelphia Eagles will be one of the most prominent teams to target him.
CBS Sports’ Jason LaCanfora says the Eagles will likely make a “heavy push” to get the Oregon coach. Current Eagles coach Andy Reid is expected to be let go after Philly’s disappointing season.
Kelly was pursued by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season and reportedly accepted the job before being persuaded to return to Oregon. He has gone 45-7 over four seasons as Oregon’s head coach since replacing Mike Bellotti. His Ducks are getting prepared for their Jan. 3 Fiesta Bowl game against Kansas State.
There are a few reasons Kelly might consider leaving Oregon for the NFL.
Oregon reportedly is facing potential sanctions from the NCAA and may have to appear in front of the committee on infractions in the spring. Knowing penalties are coming, Kelly could skip out the way Pete Carroll left USC for Seattle. Additionally, Kelly has been so successful running the Ducks program, he may want to see whether he can enjoy similar success at football’s highest level. Kelly has exclusively coached at the collegiate level during his career.
NFL.com’s Albert Breer also reports that the Carolina Panthers likely would have interest in Kelly if they fire second-year head coach Ron Rivera. Chip Kelly calling plays for Cam Newton? Now that would be spectacular.
