Ohio State’s football program is facing a significant coaching shakeup, as both its defensive and offensive coordinators have departed.
Just days after it was confirmed that defensive coordinator Jim Knowles would be heading to rival Penn State, another bombshell dropped: offensive coordinator Chip Kelly is returning to the NFL.
Kelly’s time with Ohio State lasted only one season, but it was a highly successful tenure that ended with the Buckeyes capturing a national championship.
Kelly’s departure had been anticipated, and while his time at Ohio State was brief, it was clear from the outset that his commitment was never going to be long-term.
Kelly’s move back to the NFL makes perfect sense given his background and aspirations. The 61-year-old coach is no stranger to the pro ranks, having last coached in the NFL in 2016 with the Philadelphia Eagles.
He also had head coaching stints with both the Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers from 2013 to 2016. Before joining Ohio State, Kelly spent time as the head coach at UCLA from 2018 to 2023.
His decision to step down from that role and take the offensive coordinator position with the Buckeyes was widely seen as a stepping stone to an eventual return to the NFL.
With Ohio State boasting a powerhouse offense in 2024, Kelly had the perfect platform to showcase his play-calling expertise without having to deal with all of the extra recruiting headaches that come with being a head coach.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day was not caught off guard by Kelly’s decision.
In an appearance on The Joel Klatt Show, Day explained that he and Kelly had already discussed the possibility of Kelly returning to the NFL after their season together.
“We talked about it, the fact that we had a really good group here and you know, the dream would be to win a national championship, and then he decides whether he wants to stay or have an opportunity to go to the NFL, and it’s exactly what happened,” Day told Klatt.
Day, who worked closely with Kelly throughout the season, recognized the crucial role Kelly played in Ohio State’s success. Kelly’s offensive scheme alleviated some of the pressure on Day and was key to the team’s championship run.
“To be able to, you know, have a beer in a few years and talk about the year we had together is going to be special,” Day added.
Despite a few bumps during the regular season, Ohio State stormed through the College Football Playoff, ultimately claiming the national title.
Kelly’s offensive play-calling was integral to the Buckeyes’ championship success, and he will always be remembered in Ohio State lore for leading one of the most potent offenses in the country.
Known for his ability to call dynamic plays, Kelly has been an elite coordinator throughout his career, and his success at Ohio State is a testament to his expertise.
With the Las Vegas Raiders now hiring Kelly as their offensive coordinator, he will bring his extensive experience back to the NFL where he will team up with new head coach Pete Carroll.
While many knew this day would eventually come, most didn’t think it would come THIS soon.
What are your thoughts on Day losing both of his main coordinators so suddenly? … Should Ohio State fans be worried heading into the preparations for next season???
