Florida Coaching Rumors Roundup: Chip Kelly Full Steam Ahead?

Mitchell Renz
Nov 14, 2017 · 5:55 PM CT

The Florida Gators have now played two games since head coach Jim McElwain was fired, and with just two games remaining in the season, there are plenty of names starting to surface in their coaching search. The most popular name on the rumor mill is Chip Kelly. But how realistic and what obstacles would be ahead for the Gators to land Chip Kelly?

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Florida Has Interest in Chip Kelly
According to Darren Heitner of Forbes, the Florida Gators are interested in Chip Kelly and a decision on whether or not Kelly would be hired may come as early as this week.

Confirmed that UF is looking at Chip Kelly as next head coach. Decision could be as soon as this week. Also heard that Florida was becoming very frustrated with Jimmy Sexton, who represents many other potential candidates. Chip is represented by David Dunn.
— Darren Heitner (@DarrenHeitner) November 13, 2017

Another source connecting the Florida Gators and Chip Kelly on Monday was Sports Illustrated's Bruce Feldman. He said on 'The Rich Eisen Show' when asked about the chances Kelly is coaching the Gators next season.

“I think there’s a chance,” Feldman said. “I think Florida has real interest in him. They’ve been terrible on offense the last decade. To me, he’s the most innovated, best offensive mind in football.”

The Hurdles Ahead For Kelly
We can't forget about Kelly's 18-month ban for recruiting violations at Oregon. The ban has expired but the reputation asterisks remain and for a school like Florida who prides itself on winning with honor, Kelly's background may not pass for Florida Administration. Also, the Gators would have to explain to Greg Sankey (SEC Commissioner) the hire of Chip Kelly. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it's also not a good thing.

Heitner was quoted on WJOX Radio in Birmingham saying:

"If Florida feels comfortable with Chip Kelly and gets clearance from the SEC on his past NCAA issues, we could see something develop this week."

The last hurdle for Kelly is his reputation with players. He didn't get along with many Eagles players and some of the Eagles players including LeSean McCoy went on to calling Chip Kelly a racist.