Chip Kelly Expected to Join Ohio State as Offensive Coordinator: UCLA Begins Search for New Head Coach
Sources informed ESPN on Friday that Chip Kelly, the UCLA coach, is anticipated to assume the role of offensive coordinator at Ohio State. UCLA officially declared Kelly’s departure from the program, initiating a nationwide search for a new head coach.
Kelly is expected to step into the position vacated by Bill O’Brien, who is slated to take over as head coach at Boston College later in the day. Ohio State had brought on O’Brien in mid-January as part of head coach Ryan Day’s decision to relinquish play-calling duties and oversee the program comprehensively.
Ohio State is reportedly required to pay a $1.5 million buyout to secure Kelly’s services. During his six-year tenure at UCLA, Kelly amassed a record of 35-34, culminating in three consecutive winning seasons. He joins the ranks of college head coaches transitioning to assistant roles in this cycle, alongside Jeff Hafley (Packers), Mo Linguist (Alabama), and Kane Wommack (Alabama).
Expressing gratitude for Kelly’s contributions, UCLA athletic director Martin Jarmond conveyed well wishes to Kelly and his wife Jill for their future endeavors. Despite interviewing for several NFL coordinator positions, including the Seattle Seahawks’ OC position, Kelly opts for a return to college football, reuniting with longtime friend and former assistant coach Ryan Day at Ohio State.
Kelly and Day share a longstanding relationship, originating from their roots in New Hampshire. Day was once coached by Kelly at New Hampshire, and later served under Kelly in the NFL with the Eagles and 49ers. Known for his adept play-calling abilities, Kelly’s offensive strategies have evolved over the years, transitioning from a rapid tempo to a more methodical NFL style.
At Ohio State, Kelly will oversee an impressive roster featuring transfer quarterback Will Howard, running backs TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, and receiver Emeka Egbuka.
