Pete Carroll Discusses Chip Kelly’s Departure from Raiders

Pete Carroll remarked that the Raiders faced a “difficult choice” in letting go of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly.

This explanation came during a press conference where he addressed reporters following Kelly’s dismissal.

Earlier this year, Kelly had transitioned from his role at Ohio State to join the Raiders with a reported contract of $6 million. However, Carroll decided to make a change after the team suffered a loss to the Browns, dropping their record to 2-9.

Carroll emphasized that there were no hard feelings between him and Kelly, suggesting no significant disagreements on strategy.

“We afforded Chip plenty of flexibility, considering his impressive track record,” Carroll commented. He acknowledged that while they had hoped for progress, it just didn’t materialize. “It’s unfortunate; I have a good rapport with him, but we had to make a tough call,” he added.

The Raiders are not considering any further adjustments to their coaching staff for the remainder of the season. They recently released special teams coordinator Tom McMahon and two assistants earlier this month.

Carroll reiterated a formula he’s followed for years: good defense and solid special teams are key to success. “We’re aiming for that, but we just haven’t got it to click yet,” he said, highlighting the necessity of this recent decision.

This season has been challenging for the Raiders, who have lost five consecutive games, with their only victories coming against the Patriots in Week 1 and the Titans in Week 6.

The team’s offense has struggled significantly, sitting at the bottom of the league in multiple categories, including last in points per game (15) and second-to-last in total yards per game (268.9). In the interim, quarterbacks coach Greg Olson will step up as offensive coordinator.

Looking ahead, the Raiders are set to play the Chargers in Los Angeles this weekend. The Chargers currently hold a 7-4 record.