Chip Kelly Leaves Ohio State for the NFL: Six Candidates to Replace Him

In a surprising move, Chip Kelly is leaving Ohio State after just one season as the Buckeyes’ offensive coordinator to take the same role with the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders. The departure comes as a shock to many, considering Kelly had only recently joined Ohio State after a tenure as UCLA’s head coach. Now, with a vacancy at one of the most prestigious programs in college football, Ohio State head coach Ryan Day must find a replacement who can maintain and enhance the Buckeyes’ high-powered offense.

As the Buckeyes prepare for a crucial 2025 season, here’s a look at six potential candidates who could replace Kelly as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator.

Joe Moorhead is a proven offensive mind with extensive experience as both a head coach and coordinator. He previously worked with Ryan Day at Oregon in 2020-21, helping develop a dynamic offense before taking the head coaching job at Akron. Moorhead is highly respected for his ability to scheme quarterbacks into success, and his familiarity with Day’s offensive philosophy makes him a logical choice.

Moorhead is currently leading his own program at Akron, and while moving back to a coordinator role at a powerhouse like Ohio State would be tempting, he may prefer to continue his head coaching journey

Brian Hartline is already an integral part of Ohio State’s offensive staff and is considered one of the best recruiters in college football. He has played a key role in developing elite receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr., Chris Olave, and Garrett Wilson. Promoting Hartline would provide continuity within the program while rewarding a coach who has been instrumental in Ohio State’s recent offensive success.

While Hartline is an outstanding position coach, he has limited experience as a full-time play-caller. He served as Ohio State’s offensive coordinator in 2023, but Ryan Day still had a significant role in play-calling duties. The question remains whether Hartline is ready to fully take the reins of the offense

Bill O’Brien has an extensive resume that includes stints as an NFL head coach (Houston Texans), an offensive coordinator in both the NFL (New England Patriots) and college (Alabama), and experience as a head coach at Penn State. He understands how to run an elite offense and develop quarterbacks at the highest level. If he’s open to leaving his new role at Boston College, he would bring instant credibility to the Buckeyes.

O’Brien was just hired as Boston College’s head coach in December 2023, making a quick departure unlikely. Additionally, he has NFL aspirations and may prefer to wait for another head coaching opportunity at the pro level rather than return to a coordinator role in college.

Andy Ludwig is one of the most experienced and respected offensive coordinators in college football. He has been the mastermind behind Utah’s offense, helping the Utes win back-to-back Pac-12 titles in 2021 and 2022. Ludwig’s ability to design a balanced attack that excels both in the passing and running games could be a perfect fit for Ohio State’s talented roster.

Ludwig has been comfortable at Utah, and leaving a stable position for a high-pressure job like Ohio State could be a tough decision. Additionally, his offensive approach is more methodical compared to Ohio State’s traditionally explosive style, meaning some adjustments might

Alex Atkins has been a rising star in the coaching world, playing a key role in Florida State’s resurgence as one of the top teams in the ACC. He is known for his offensive line expertise and his ability to create strong rushing attacks while still maintaining an effective passing game. His balanced approach could fit well with Ohio State’s current roster.

Atkins has been heavily involved in Florida State’s recent success, and with head coach Mike Norvell’s program on the rise, it might be difficult to lure him away. Additionally, he has limited experience as a full-time play-caller.

Kliff Kingsbury is one of the most innovative offensive minds in football, known for his Air Raid system and quarterback development skills. He has NFL head coaching experience with the Arizona Cardinals and has also worked at the college level, most recently as USC’s quarterbacks coach. His ability to develop elite quarterbacks would be extremely appealing for Ohio State.

Kingsbury has been linked to multiple NFL jobs and may not be interested in returning to college full-time. Additionally, his offensive philosophy is significantly different from Ohio State’s current system, which could require major adjustments.

Chip Kelly’s departure leaves a significant void for Ohio State, but Ryan Day has plenty of options to consider when selecting his next offensive coordinator. If Day wants continuity, promoting Brian Hartline could be the easiest move. However, if he wants an experienced play-caller, candidates like Joe Moorhead, Bill O’Brien, or Andy Ludwig could be strong fits.

Ohio State’s decision will be critical as the program prepares for the 2025 season, which includes high expectations and championship aspirations. Whoever takes over will inherit a talented roster, elite playmakers, and one of the best quarterback rooms in the country. Now, it’s up to Ryan Day to make the right call and ensure that the Buckeyes remain an offensive powerhouse.