Just when you thought the Kentucky football coaching search couldn't get any crazier, Mike Florio entered the chat.
The NFL insider put the rumor mill into the stratosphere with his latest report, claiming that Kentucky players have floated the idea of former Oregon head coach Chip Kelly taking over in Lexington.
Kelly, who was recently fired from the Raiders during his first season back in the NFL, is looking for work. And let's not forget, he helped Ohio State win a national title in 2024 as their offensive coordinator. It is not like the man has forgotten how to coach offense.
The resume is undeniable
- Oregon (2009-2012): 46-7 record. Revolutionized the sport.
- NFL: Coached Eagles and 49ers.
- UCLA (2018-2023): Stabilized the program.
- Ohio State (2024): National Champion OC.
His career college record is 81-41. While critics will point out that he is just 35-34 since leaving Oregon, his offensive mind is still considered elite. But you do have to wonder if Kelly is still ahead of the curve like he was when he first started. Having a NFL coach on your sideline is always a good thing though, especially after a disasterous stretch.
Is it real?
To his credit, Florio clarified: "Word is circulating among Kentucky players that Kelly could be the team’s next head coach. That doesn’t mean he will be... It means only that Kentucky players have somehow developed the impression that Kelly could be the new coach."
Is it a pipe dream? Maybe. But Chip Kelly on the sidelines of Kroger Field would certainly solve the "boring offense" problem overnight. But can he build a program in 2025, that question is one that needs to be answered. He can't prove it until he is given the chance but his stint at UCLA doesn't inspire much confidence. Will it happen? You can never say never in this business.