Raiders Fire Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly
The Las Vegas Raiders have made a drastic decision by firing their offensive coordinator, Chip Kelly, after only 11 games in his first season with the team. The news was confirmed after the team’s loss to the Cleveland Browns. The 24-10 defeat to the Browns left the Raiders with a 2-9 record this season. Coach Pete Carroll announced the decision through a statement.Carroll has not announced a replacement for the offensive coordinator position. The Raiders’ offense has had notable difficulties so far this season.“I spoke with Chip Kelly tonight and informed him of his dismissal as offensive coordinator of the Raiders. I would like to thank Chip for his service and wish him the best in the future.”
Pete Carroll
- They average 15.0 points per game, tied for last in the NFL.
- They rank 30th in total yards per game (268.9).
- They rank 31st in rushing yards per game (79.5 yards).
- They rank 30th in offensive EPA (minus 77.8).
- They are 28th in red zone efficiency (48.1%).
“I am grateful for the opportunity with the Raiders; the conclusion in this league is that you have to win. I really loved those players. I am a big, big fan of Geno Smith. That was one of the best parts of this experience for me, working with Geno and those guys every day. But hey, we have to win. I understand that.”
Chip Kelly
This is the second personnel change for Carroll this season, following the firing of special teams coordinator Tom McMahon on November 7.
Kelly joined the Raiders’ coaching staff after helping Ohio State win a national title as their offensive coordinator last season. The 61-year-old coach, with an annual salary of $6 million, was tasked with improving the Raiders’ offense, which was one of the worst in the league last season. Under Kelly’s direction, Geno Smith has had one of his worst seasons as a starter. He has thrown for 2,367 yards, 13 touchdowns, 13 interceptions, and a completion rate of 66.6%. Smith ranks 29th in passer rating (82.4) and 32nd in QBR (29.2). Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty has scored a total of eight touchdowns, but averages 3.6 yards per carry. The Raiders have battled injuries during their first season under Carroll and General Manager John Spytek.- All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers missed three games due to a knee injury.
- Starting left tackle Kolton Miller was placed on injured reserve on September 30 due to a high ankle sprain and a stress fracture.
- Starting right guard Jackson Powers-Johnson was placed on injured reserve earlier this month due to an ankle injury.
