Chip Kelly will be the new head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, the team has officially announced. Reports began pouring in around noon on Twitter that the former Oregon Ducks coach had agreed to terms. The official announcement came on the team's official site about a half hour later. Eagles president Jeffrey Lurie praised Kelly in the team's press release:
Chip Kelly hired as Eagles head coach
It’s official: Chip Kelly will leave Oregon to become the new head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
“Chip Kelly will be an outstanding head coach for the Eagles,” said Lurie. “He has a brilliant football mind. He motivates his team with his actions as well as his words. He will be a great leader for us and will bring a fresh, energetic approach to our team.”
Kelly had announced he would be returning to Oregon after interviewing the Eagles following the team's Fiesta Bowl win over Kansas State. The sudden change of heart could be due to several reasons. Roster control was reportedly a big reason why he rebuked the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season, and may have been why he turned the Eagles initially despite their flirtation.
Kelly spent four seasons with Oregon, amassing a 46-7 record and four BCS Bowl appearances. He replaces Andy Reid, who was fired after 14 seasons in Philadelphia. Ducks offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich is expected to become the new head coach in Eugene.
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