Chip Kelly to NFL?

In case you’ve somehow missed it, reports are out that Chip Kelly is leaving Oregon to become head coach of the Oregon Ducks.  The first thought for many is that he must think sanctions are not far away for Oregon, similar to Pete Carroll leaving USC.  Time will tell if that’s true or if he just wants to try the NFL, but this is good news for the Huskies either way.  Kelly is one of the best offensive minds and head coaches in football and nearly anyone else will be a step down.

The Ducks will surely make a play for Boise State’s Chris Petersen and maybe TCU’s Gary Patterson, but I have my doubts they’ll land a big name guy if sanctions are really coming.  Husky fans just have to hope that Oregon’s search doesn’t lead to Oregon alum and new Husky DC Justin Wilcox.  I don’t think it will, but if he leaves, he might take a good chunk of the new defensive staff with him.  Assuming this goes through, it’s going to be a crazy week of recruiting before the February 1st signing day.  Stay tuned.

-Matthew