Raiders Fire Chip Kelly Amid Offensive Struggles and Ongoing Staff Turmoil

The Las Vegas Raiders have fired offensive coordinator Chip Kelly after just 11 games in his first season with the team. The decision came following a 24-10 loss to the Cleveland Browns, dropping the Raiders to a 2-9 record. Head coach Pete Carroll announced the move, thanking Kelly for his service but offering no immediate replacement for the role.

Raiders’ Struggling Offense Falters, Kelly Reflects on Challenges and Player Development Efforts

Las Vegas’ offense has been among the NFL’s worst this season. The team ranks last in points per game (15.0), near the bottom in total yards (268.9 per game), rushing yards (79.5 per game), offensive EPA (-77.8), and red zone efficiency (48.1%). The Raiders have scored fewer than 10 points in four games, highlighting the team’s ongoing scoring difficulties.

In his remarks, Kelly expressed gratitude for the opportunity but acknowledged the team’s need to win. He praised quarterback Geno Smith and the players he coached, calling the experience rewarding despite the poor results. Kelly’s tenure was part of a broader attempt to revamp an offense that struggled in previous seasons.

Key Players Struggle, Injuries Mount, and Raiders Face Ongoing Midseason Staff Turnover

Quarterback Geno Smith has had one of his worst seasons, throwing 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions with a 66.6% completion rate. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty has struggled as well, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry despite eight total touchdowns. Injuries have further hampered the team, with key players like All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers and starting linemen Kolton Miller and Jackson Powers-Johnson missing significant time.

The firing continues a pattern of midseason staff changes for the Raiders. Special teams coordinator Tom McMahon was let go earlier this season, and the team also fired an offensive coordinator midseason last year. Kelly’s dismissal underscores ongoing instability as Carroll and general manager John Spytek attempt to rebuild the struggling franchise.