Chip Kelly Out as Raiders Offensive Coordinator After Rough Start

The Las Vegas Raiders have made a significant move by parting ways with offensive coordinator Chip Kelly following a disappointing 2-9 start to the season. Kelly’s tenure, which lasted just 11 games and made him the highest-paid offensive coordinator in the NFL, came to an end on Sunday after the team’s lackluster performance.

Why the Raiders Let Go of Chip Kelly

The decision to dismiss Kelly was influenced by the Raiders’ struggles on offense, which ranked at the bottom of the league in both points scored (15.0 per game) and total yards (268.9 per game). The team’s latest defeat, a 24-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns, marked their fifth consecutive defeat and underscored the urgent need for a change. As Coach Pete Carroll explained in a press release, “I spoke with Chip Kelly earlier this evening and informed him of his release. I would like to thank Chip for his service and wish him all the best in the future.”

Key Stats from the Raiders’ Offense Under Kelly:

• Points Per Game: 15.0 (last in NFL)
• Yards Per Game: 268.9 (third-fewest in NFL)
• Games Scoring Over 25 Points: Only once, in a 30-29 overtime loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The team’s inability to score touchdowns consistently was a critical factor in Kelly’s dismissal. The Raiders managed just one touchdown against the Browns, which came late in the fourth quarter.

A Brief Background on Chip Kelly

Kelly, who previously had success with the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers, joined the Raiders with high hopes after leading Ohio State’s offense to a national title in 2024. Known for his fast-paced offensive schemes, he was expected to bring a fresh perspective to Las Vegas. His lucrative deal was reportedly worth around $6 million.

Notable Past Roles:

• Head Coach, Oregon: Achieved a successful run prior to joining the NFL in 2013.
• Offensive Coordinator, Ohio State: Guided the Buckeyes to a national championship before his return to the NFL.

Future Implications for the Raiders

The Raiders will face the Los Angeles Chargers next Sunday, but they have yet to announce an interim offensive coordinator. This leaves many questions about the team’s direction and performance going forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Immediate Challenge: The Raiders have no clear offensive direction heading into their next game.
• Roster Moves: Las Vegas had made significant investments in their offense, including acquiring quarterback Geno Smith and drafting star running back Ashton Jeanty sixth overall.

As the Raiders seek to turn their season around, the next steps will be crucial in determining the future of the franchise and its offensive strategy.

For more insights on the Raiders and NFL news, check out resources like ESPN and NFL.com for the latest updates.