The Las Vegas Raiders have parted ways with offensive coordinator Chip Kelly following yet another disappointing offensive display, as reported by various sources.
This marks the second time in three weeks that the Raiders have dismissed a coordinator, with special teams coordinator Tom McMahon being let go after a narrow 10-7 defeat to the Denver Broncos on November 6.
In an effort to bolster their offense during the offseason, the Raiders brought Kelly on board, making him the highest-paid coordinator in the NFL at an average of $6 million per season.
Kelly, who previously won a national championship with the Ohio State Buckeyes, rejoined the NFL, teaming up with head coach Pete Carroll, who came out of retirement for the Raiders. However, despite acquiring veteran quarterback Geno Smith through a trade with the Seattle Seahawks and selecting running back Ashton Giunty in the first round of the draft, the offensive unit has struggled significantly.
Owner Mark Davis and others in the organization believed it was necessary to make a change before the end of Kelly’s first season with the team.
Kelly’s dismissal came on the heels of a performance that netted just 10 points in a 24-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns. Smith connected on 30 of 44 passes for 285 yards and a touchdown to Giunty, but the Raiders’ offense has been lackluster, scoring 16 points or less in four of their last five games—all losses.
Before Sunday’s matchup, the Raiders ranked near the bottom, placing third-worst in yards per game (269) and points per game (15.5). Carroll expressed dissatisfaction with Giunty and the rushing game, noting that they allowed only 81.4 yards per game despite investing a first-round pick in a running back.
The Raiders’ offensive line has faced ongoing challenges all season, and entering the Cleveland game, Smith had been sacked 31 times. The Browms contributed significantly to this, racking up ten sacks during the game. Notably, only Cam Ward of the Tennessee Titans—who was the No. 1 overall pick—has experienced more sacks this season, at 45 times.
As for who will assume the offensive play-calling responsibilities moving forward, that remains uncertain. With a dismal record of 2-9, Carroll’s anticipated revitalization of the team has taken a rocky turn.
