Chip Kelly has taken on a significant role as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach with the Ohio State Buckeyes. With a history of leading elite offenses in college football, Kelly’s arrival is expected to make a big impact on the team’s offensive strategies.
Previously, he served as a head coach in the NFL and various Power 5 schools, bringing a wealth of experience and tactical knowledge to Ohio State.
Ryan Day, head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, appointed Kelly on February 9, 2024, believing in his ability to revitalize the team’s rushing attack.
This is particularly important for players like Treveyon Henderson, who could see a substantial improvement in performance under Kelly’s guidance.
Known for his innovative offensive schemes, Kelly is likely to elevate the play of quarterbacks Lincoln Kienholz and Air Noland during their crucial training sessions.
Kelly’s influence extends beyond individual player development.
With his contract set to run through 2026, Ohio State fans can look forward to seeing a more dynamic and efficient offense on the field.
The collaboration between Kelly and Day aims to bring the Buckeyes back to the forefront of college football excellence.
For more insights on Kelly’s game plans and his history of success, check out his profile on the Ohio State Buckeyes website.
Who Is Chip Kelly?
Chip Kelly is a well-known football coach who has made significant contributions to both college and professional football. He is currently serving as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Where Did Chip Kelly Grow Up?
Chip Kelly grew up in New Hampshire. Born on November 25, 1963, in Dover, New Hampshire, he developed an early interest in sports.
Dover is a small town that provided a tight-knit community, which helped shape his future career.
Kelly attended Manchester Central High School, where he excelled in multiple sports, including football.
His high school years were marked by enthusiasm for the game, laying the foundation for his future in coaching.
Where Did Chip Kelly Play College Football?
Chip Kelly played college football at the University of New Hampshire. He attended the university from 1981 to 1984, where he was a quarterback.
His time at New Hampshire was crucial in developing his understanding of the game and leadership skills.
Playing for the Wildcats, he gained a reputation for his strategic thinking. This experience would later influence his coaching style, known for its innovative offensive strategies.
Where Does Chip Kelly Live?
Currently, Chip Kelly resides in Columbus, Ohio. His move to Columbus coincided with his new role as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Living in Columbus allows him to be fully engaged with the team and the local football community.
The city offers a vibrant sports culture, making it an appropriate home for someone deeply involved in college football.
Kelly’s presence in Columbus is appreciated by both fans and players.
Who Is Chip Kelly Married To?
Chip Kelly is married to Jenifer Jenkins. Their marriage has been a supportive partnership, especially important given the demands of his coaching career.
While they keep their personal life private, it is known that her support has been vital to his success.
Kelly’s busy schedule often keeps him away from home, but Jenifer’s understanding and encouragement play a significant role in balancing his professional and personal life.
Chip Kelly Professional Career
Chip Kelly has had a dynamic coaching career spanning both college football and the NFL. His innovative play-calling and offensive strategies have left a significant imprint on every team he has coached.
What Teams Has Chip Kelly Previously Coached For?
Chip Kelly started his head coaching career with the Oregon Ducks in 2009.
During his tenure, he led the team to the 2011 BCS National Championship Game. His success in college football led to opportunities in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles from 2013 to 2015.
Kelly then had a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers in 2016.
After his time in the NFL, Kelly returned to college football as the head coach for the UCLA Bruins from 2018 until early 2024.
His various roles across different teams highlight his widespread influence and versatility as a coach.
What Team Is Chip Kelly Currently Coaching For?
As of February 2024, Chip Kelly is the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
This move was announced by Ohio State head coach Ryan Day.
He was brought in to revitalize the Buckeyes’ offense and leverage his expertise to improve their rushing and passing games.
Kelly’s contract with Ohio State extends through 2026, evidencing the program’s commitment to his offensive strategies.
His appointment marks a significant shift from his head coaching roles to more specialized responsibilities focusing on offensive coordination and quarterbacks.
Does Chip Kelly Want to Coach in the NFL?
Chip Kelly’s career has oscillated between college and professional football, raising questions about his future aspirations.
Though he previously moved to the NFL with the Eagles and 49ers, his recent comments suggest a more settled outlook in college football.
Chip Kelly has emphasized his happiness in his current position, saying he enjoys working with college players and the unique challenges college football presents.
Nonetheless, given his past transitions, it would not be surprising if he considered future NFL opportunities, should they arise.
What Are Chip Kelly Future Prospects?
Chip Kelly’s future prospects remain broad and varied. His innovative offensive strategies and proven track record make him a valuable asset to any program.
While he is committed to Ohio State through 2026, opportunities could arise in either college or professional football, depending on how his tenure with the Buckeyes unfolds.
The football world will be closely monitoring how Kelly’s strategies impact the team’s performance.
Success with the Ohio State Buckeyes could lead to offers from other major college programs or potentially another shot in the NFL, depending on the league’s demand for experienced offensive minds.
Chip Kelly Major Achievements and Awards
During his career, Chip Kelly has earned numerous accolades.
He was named Pac-10 Coach of the Year in 2009 and 2010.
Claim your free insider access before it's gone!
Kelly also received the Maxwell Club Coach of the Year award in 2010.
Under his guidance, the Oregon Ducks became a powerhouse, consistently reaching BCS Bowl Games.
His innovations in play-calling have left a lasting impact, particularly emphasizing a fast-paced, high-scoring offense.
These achievements underscore his ability to transform teams and develop talent at multiple levels of the sport.
Similar Coaches to Chip Kelly
Several coaches share career paths similar to Chip Kelly.
For instance, Jim Harbaugh transitioned from Stanford to the San Francisco 49ers before returning to college football with Michigan. Like Kelly, Harbaugh has impacted both college and NFL teams.
Urban Meyer also mirrors Kelly’s career, having coached at Florida and Ohio State before briefly moving to the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Both coaches are known for their offensive strategies and have achieved success at multiple levels.
These similarities highlight common paths experienced coaches often take between college and professional football.
How Does Chip Kelly Do With NIL and Transfer Portal?
Chip Kelly’s move to Ohio State has brought significant attention to his strategies with NIL and the transfer portal, as these elements are crucial for modern college football success. Understanding Kelly’s approach to these areas is key for assessing his impact on the Buckeyes.
Chip Kelly and Transfer Portal
Chip Kelly has effectively utilized the transfer portal to recruit players who can quickly impact Ohio State’s performance.
By targeting seasoned athletes with proven track records, he has bolstered the team’s depth and experience.
Kelly’s strategy includes focusing on positions that need immediate support, such as the offensive line and running backs.
This approach helps improve the team’s rushing and total offense stats.
With new players from the portal, he can also enhance the play-calling options by adding versatile talent.
Among notable transfers is linebacker James Laurinaitis, who joined Kelly’s coaching staff.
Laurinaitis, a former Ohio State star, brings valuable experience and insights. Such additions are vital for developing the team’s overall defensive and offensive strategies.
Chip Kelly and NIL Money
The influence of NIL money has been prominent in Chip Kelly’s approach at Ohio State.
By leveraging NIL opportunities, Kelly can attract top-tier talent to the program.
Promising recruits are drawn by the potential to earn money through endorsements, which strengthens Ohio State’s recruiting efforts.
Under Kelly, NIL deals are structured to align with the team’s marketing efforts.
This ensures that players’ off-field earnings translate into on-field success.
Athletes are motivated to perform well, boosting key metrics like scoring, yards per game, and efficiency in the run game.
Kelly’s recruitment message now includes NIL potential as a significant factor.
With the backing of Ohio State’s robust athletic department, players are offered comprehensive support for navigating the complexities of NIL agreements.
This integrated approach helps in securing high-caliber recruits and maintaining a competitive edge.
How Much Is Chip Kelly’s Contract For?
Chip Kelly’s contract at Ohio State is structured to pay him a base salary with annual increases over three years. A notable aspect is his incentives, which can significantly boost his overall earnings.
How Much Does Chip Kelly Make in Salary Per Year?
Chip Kelly’s salary for his role at Ohio State begins at $2 million in 2024. This makes him one of the highest-paid assistants at the university.
His contract specifies yearly increases. In 2025, Kelly will earn $2.1 million, followed by $2.2 million in 2026.
These figures show a clear commitment by Ohio State to attract top-level coaching talent. This salary is significantly lower than what he was earning at UCLA, where he made $6 million annually.
How Much Does Chip Kelly Make in Incentives Per Year?
In addition to his base salary, Kelly’s contract includes performance-based incentives.
These incentives can include bonuses for achieving certain team milestones, such as winning a conference championship or making a significant bowl game.
The exact figures for these incentives have not been publicly disclosed, but they typically align with the performance targets set by the university for its coaching staff.
Performance bonuses are common in high-level college coaching contracts, and they often serve as additional motivation for achieving top results.
What Is Chip Kelly’s Net Worth?
Chip Kelly has had a notable career in college football, which has contributed significantly to his net worth.
Currently, he is the offensive coordinator for the Ohio State Buckeyes. His contract with Ohio State includes a salary of $2 million for the 2024 season.
Below is a breakdown of his salary progression:
| Year | Salary |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $2 million |
| 2025 | $2.1 million |
| 2026 | $2.2 million |
Kelly’s previous coaching roles have also been quite lucrative. For instance, his contract at UCLA included an annual salary of $6.1 million for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.
Additional Income Sources
Besides his salary, Kelly likely earns from endorsements, speaking engagements, and other related activities. These additional income streams have further boosted his overall net worth.
His broad experience and high-profile roles in both college and professional football make him a well-known figure in the sports world.
Estimated Net Worth
Given his extensive coaching career and substantial salaries, Chip Kelly’s estimated net worth is likely in the range of $20-25 million.
His successful stints with various teams and increasing annual salaries have made significant contributions to his wealth.
Get the latest sent right to your inbox