Chip Kelly's Tenure with the Raiders Ends Amid Play-Calling Controversy

The Las Vegas Raiders have terminated Chip Kelly's position as offensive coordinator following a disappointing 2-9 season, marked by significant offensive struggles. Kelly's dismissal came after a particularly poor performance against the Cleveland Browns, where the team managed only ten points. Reports have surfaced indicating that Kelly's play-calling was a major factor in the team's offensive dysfunction.

Report: Ex-Raiders OC Kelly would repeatedly call plays incorrectly

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that Kelly frequently botched play calls, leading to confusion among players, particularly quarterback Geno Smith. Instances were noted where Kelly failed to tag motions correctly, resulting in Smith questioning the play at the line of scrimmage. Pelissero stated, “There were times, I was told, where Chip Kelly was repeatedly botching the play calls... He forgets to say it, so Geno Smith is going to the line of scrimmage going, ‘This doesn’t look right.’” Furthermore, it was alleged that Kelly sometimes called plays that were not included in the game plan or had not been installed at all.

Report Says Chip Kelly Brought Disfunction to the Raiders’ Offense, Botched Plays, Forgot CallsNBC SportsNew Details Emerge About Why Las Vegas Raiders Fired Chip KellyBleacher ReportChip Kelly was reportedly screwing up his own playcallsHeavyLas Vegas Review JournalNew York PostReport: Raiders OC Chip Kelly didn't know his own team's playbookReport: Ex-Raiders OC Kelly would repeatedly call plays incorrectly

In response to the allegations, Raiders head coach Pete Carroll refuted the claims about Kelly's play-calling issues, asserting, “There is no truth to the comments about Chip and any play-calling issues.” Carroll emphasized that he had given Kelly considerable leeway due to his extensive coaching background, which included a successful stint at Ohio State. Despite this, the Raiders' offense ranked poorly, finishing 30th in yards per game and 31st in points per game during Kelly's tenure.

Las Vegas Review JournalHeavyReport: Ex-Raiders OC Kelly would repeatedly call plays incorrectlyBleacher ReportNew York PostNBC SportsReport Says Chip Kelly Brought Disfunction to the Raiders’ Offense, Botched Plays, Forgot CallsNew Details Emerge About Why Las Vegas Raiders Fired Chip KellyChip Kelly was reportedly screwing up his own playcallsReport: Raiders OC Chip Kelly didn't know his own team's playbook

Kelly was hired in February 2025 with high expectations, having previously led Ohio State to a College Football Playoff title. The Raiders, under Carroll's leadership, aimed to revitalize their offense, especially after acquiring Smith, who had shown promise in previous seasons. However, the combination of Kelly's play-calling errors and Smith's struggles—culminating in leading the league with 13 interceptions—resulted in a lackluster offensive performance.

Bleacher Report

Following Kelly's departure, quarterbacks coach Greg Olson has been promoted to interim offensive coordinator. Olson's approach is expected to focus on a more balanced offensive strategy, emphasizing the running game. The Raiders are set to face the Los Angeles Chargers in their next game, where Olson will debut as the play-caller.

Report: Ex-Raiders OC Kelly would repeatedly call plays incorrectly

Chip Kelly's brief tenure with the Raiders has been characterized by significant challenges, culminating in his firing after just 11 games. While the team's offensive struggles were evident, the controversy surrounding Kelly's play-calling raises questions about his fit in the NFL, suggesting a potential return to college football may be on the horizon. As the Raiders look to regroup under Olson, the effectiveness of their new offensive strategy will be closely monitored.

Report: Raiders OC Chip Kelly didn't know his own team's playbook