Las Vegas Raiders Part Ways with Offensive Coordinator Chip Kelly

The Las Vegas Raiders have announced the dismissal of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, effective Sunday night, November 23, 2025. The high-profile firing comes less than four hours after the Raiders suffered a dismal 24-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns, dropping their season record to a disappointing 2-9. Kelly, who was reportedly the highest-paid offensive coordinator in the NFL with a $6 million annual contract, lasted just 11 games in his role.

Head Coach Pete Carroll confirmed the decision in a statement, saying, "I spoke with Chip Kelly earlier this evening and informed him of his release as offensive coordinator of the Raiders. I would like to thank Chip for his service and wish him all the best in the future." This marks the second coordinator change for Carroll’s staff this month, following the firing of special teams coordinator Tom McMahon on November 7.

A Season of Offensive Struggles

The Raiders’ offense under Kelly consistently underperformed, failing to live up to the significant investment and expectations. Through 11 games, the team’s statistics paint a grim picture:

• **Scoring:** Tied for last in the NFL with a meager 15 points per game.
• **Total Offense:** Ranked 30th in the league, averaging just 269 yards per game.
• **Rushing:** Ranked 31st, with only 79.5 yards per game and 3.54 yards per rush, second worst in the league.
• **Sacks Allowed:** Second worst, averaging 3.7 sacks per game, including a staggering 10 sacks against quarterback Geno Smith in the recent loss to the Browns.
• **Passer Rating:** Ranked fifth worst with an 82.3 passer rating.
• **Red Zone Efficiency:** Ranked 30th.

The offense showed signs of regression as the season progressed, scoring 16 points or fewer in four of the last five games, and 10 points or fewer in three of those contests. Fans at Allegiant Stadium reportedly booed the offense during the game against the Browns, a clear indication of mounting frustration.

Player Performance and Injury Impact

Quarterback Geno Smith, acquired in a trade and reuniting with Coach Carroll, has endured one of his worst seasons as a starter. He has thrown for 2,367 yards, 13 touchdowns, and is tied for the league lead with 13 interceptions. His passer rating of 82.4 ranks 29th, and his QBR of 29.2 is 32nd in the NFL.

Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, drafted sixth overall with hopes of revitalizing the league’s worst rushing attack, has rushed for 604 yards but averaged a modest 3.6 yards per carry. The offensive line has been a significant concern, battling injuries to key starters Kolton Miller (out since September 30 with a high ankle sprain and hairline fracture) and Jackson Powers-Johnson (placed on IR earlier this month with an ankle injury). The struggles were compounded by the trade of wide receiver Jakobi Meyers and the inability of rookie receivers Jack Bech and Dont’e Thornton Jr. to fill the void.

Kelly’s Tumultuous NFL Return

Chip Kelly’s return to the NFL as an offensive coordinator was highly anticipated after a successful stint as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator, where he helped the Buckeyes win a national championship. Prior to that, Kelly had a notable college coaching career at Oregon (46-7 record) and UCLA (35-34 record from 2018-23). His previous NFL head coaching experience included three seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles (28-35 record, one playoff appearance) and one season with the San Francisco 49ers (2-14 record), neither of which ended in sustained success.

This latest dismissal underscores the challenges Kelly has faced in translating his offensive philosophy to the professional level. Coach Carroll had previously expressed concerns about play-calling, hinting at a disconnect within the offensive staff.

What Lies Ahead for the Raiders and Kelly

With Kelly’s departure, the Raiders face the immediate task of naming an interim offensive coordinator and attempting to salvage what remains of their season. The team’s consistent instability in coaching positions, with multiple coordinators and head coaches cycling through in recent years, remains a significant hurdle for long-term success.

As for Chip Kelly, at 61 years old, his future in coaching is now uncertain. Speculation suggests a potential return to the college ranks, perhaps as an assistant at Ohio State if a position opens, or even a head coaching role at a program like Cal, which recently fired its head coach. A hiatus from coaching or a move into media could also be possibilities for the veteran coach.