Chip Kelly’s time with the Raiders was short-lived-just 11 games into a three-year deal-but the veteran play-caller might not be on the sidelines for long. Word out of Kentucky suggests he could be in line for another head coaching opportunity, this time back in the college ranks.
According to reports, there’s growing buzz among players at the University of Kentucky that Kelly could be their next head coach. Now, to be clear, there’s nothing official yet-no confirmed interviews, no press conferences scheduled-but when players start talking, it’s usually worth paying attention. That kind of chatter doesn’t just come out of nowhere.
Kelly, who signed a lucrative deal with the Raiders back in February, was the NFL’s highest-paid coordinator before his abrupt departure last week. He was making $6 million a year, according to insider Vinny Bonsignore. That’s top-tier money for an assistant, and it underscores just how much belief the Raiders had in his offensive acumen when they brought him in.
But things didn’t pan out in Las Vegas. Whether it was scheme fit, personnel, or just a lack of cohesion, Kelly’s offense never quite clicked. And while that’s a blow for the Raiders-who were already dealing with a turbulent season-the timing might be perfect for a college program looking to make a splash.
Kentucky could be that program. The Wildcats are at a crossroads, and Kelly’s name carries weight in the college game. His up-tempo, spread-heavy offense has long been considered more suited for Saturdays than Sundays, and a return to the SEC could give him the kind of platform where his system thrives.
If this move does happen, Kentucky would be getting a coach with a proven track record at the collegiate level and a deep understanding of how to build an explosive offense. For Kelly, it’d be a chance to reset and reestablish himself in a space where he’s had success before.
And for the Raiders? It might just be a case of addition by subtraction. After a season that’s been filled with more questions than answers, moving on from Kelly could open the door for a fresh offensive vision-one that better fits their personnel and long-term plans.
No matter how this plays out, one thing’s clear: Chip Kelly’s coaching journey is far from over. Whether it’s in Lexington or somewhere else, don’t be surprised if we see him back on the sidelines soon, headset on, dialing up plays and looking to prove he’s still one of the most innovative minds in football.