With the recent firing of Mark Helfrich freeing up the head coaching position in Oregon, it was only a matter of time before Chip Kelly would be forced to issue a statement regarding his interest in the job.
Kelly, who coached the Ducks to a 46-7 record and a National Championship appearance over a dominant four-year stretch, remains steadfast in his commitment to the San Francisco 49ers.
#49ers Chip Kelly on Oregon firing Mark Helfrich: pic.twitter.com/vUr5rUvb4t
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) November 30, 2016
After leaving Oregon in 2012 for Philadelphia, Kelly largely failed to replicate the success he had at the collegiate level. With athletes at the NFL being faster and more conditioned, the rapid pace of play strategy he employs did not create the gulf he anticipated. He was fired after three seasons and a 26-21 record and only one playoff appearance.
In his first year with the 49ers, the team is off to a 1-10 start.
It is only natural to assume Kelly has at least some interest in the job in Oregon. Dubbed “the mad scientist” for his unorthodox coaching style, he became accustomed to being called a football genius. His NFL coaching career has not panned out the way he hoped and Oregon super-booster Phil Knight has been seen roaming the 49ers sideline this season, and has stated he would be willing to pay upwards of $10 million to the next Oregon coach.
Kelly may be intent on coaching at the NFL level, but he’s running out of time and chances to do so. At what point do you take the money and run?
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