At a Glance
- Chip Kelly named Northwestern’s offensive coordinator
- Kelly previously led Oregon to a 46-7 record and a national championship game appearance (2009-2012)
- Northwestern’s offense set to revamp ahead of a new stadium
- Why it matters: The Wildcats aim to boost their offensive performance and capitalize on a rising program
In a swift move, Chip Kelly was hired as Northwestern’s new offensive coordinator, bringing a storied coaching pedigree to a program on the rise.
Hiring Decision
Kelly was hired Tuesday after the Las Vegas Raiders fired him as offensive coordinator. He brings a history of explosive offenses, including a $6M NFL contract.
- Oregon (2009-2012): 46-7 record, national championship game
- Philadelphia Eagles (2013-2016): head coach
- San Francisco 49ers (2017): head coach
- UCLA (2018-2023): 35-34 record
- Ohio State (2024): national championship as OC
Coaching Legacy
Kelly’s record showcases a pattern of offensive innovation and success across college and the NFL.
| Team | Record | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Oregon | 46-7 | National championship game (2012) |
| UCLA | 35-34 | 2023 season |
| Ohio State | 2024 | National championship (OC) |
Northwestern’s Outlook
Coach David Braun praised Kelly’s work and emphasized the timing of a new stadium and transfer portal.
David Braun
> “There was certainly an incredible amount of respect for the body of work that he’s put together, whether it be in the NFL, his time at Oregon, time at UCLA, time at Ohio State. But through conversations and really getting to know him as a person and as a football mind, it was very evident to me that an opportunity to bring him on board and have him be a part of Northwestern football was something that could be an absolute game-changer for this program and specifically our offense here at Northwestern.”
Chip Kelly
> “This program and university are clearly on the rise, and the values of the people and this place align with my own. I am grateful for the opportunity. There is tremendous potential under Coach Braun’s leadership, and I’m ready to contribute to this team.”
New stadium plans, the opening of the transfer portal, and the need to fill the coordinator position were highlighted as critical factors.
Key Takeaways
- Chip Kelly’s hiring brings a proven offensive mind to Northwestern.
- Kelly’s coaching history spans college championships and a $6M NFL contract.
- The program’s new stadium and rising trajectory set the stage for an offensive overhaul.
Northwestern’s move signals a commitment to elevate its offense and leverage a historic coaching legacy in the lead-up to a new stadium.
