Report: Brian Kelly Exploring Possibility Of Leaving Notre Dame

After a disappointing 4-8 season, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish might be looking for a new head coach this offseason. But, not necessarily by choice. Pat Forde of Yahoo Sports reports head coach Brian Kelly is looking into leaving Notre Dame for a different job. 

Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly has reached out through representatives to explore coaching options outside Notre Dame, sources told Yahoo Sports.

Forde reports the exploration of leaving has nothing to do with the recent NCAA sanctions placed on Notre Dame. Despite the rough season at Notre Dame, athletic director Jack Swarbrick has repeatedly said Kelly's job is safe. The 4-8 record is the worst mark at Notre Dame in 52 years.

Forde reports Kelly hasn't given Notre Dame any indication he's looking to leave. Following Notre Dame's loss to USC, Kelly said he expected and wanted to be back at Notre Dame next year. 

It's unclear what jobs could intrigue Kelly. Texas and LSU have already filled their vacancies, leaving only Purdue, Baylor and Houston as the open jobs. Schools like Oregon and UCLA could have openings, but that's not guaranteed. Kelly could make a jump to the NFL, if there's interest. He's been linked to NFL jobs in past years.  

There's the chance Kelly's instructed his representatives to do some prep work in the even Notre Dame fires him. Even with his terrible season, Kelly has posted a 59-31 record at Notre Dame, with a 12-1 season in 2012. 

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