Brian Kelly has turned down a chance to jump to the NFL and is working toward an extension and a raise with Notre Dame, a source has told ESPN’s Joe Schad.
The source said there is “still some work to do” on Kelly’s potential new deal with the Irish.
Kelly met with the Philadelphia Eagles on Tuesday, and there was mutual interest after the interview.
“This week, I had an incredible opportunity to speak with one of the premier organizations in sports about becoming their head coach,” Kelly said in a statement released through the school.
“Like every kid who has ever put on a pair of football cleats, I have had thoughts about being a part of the NFL. However, after much reflection and conversation with those closest to me, I have decided to remain at Notre Dame.
“This decision was motivated purely by my love for Notre Dame and the entire Fighting Irish community, the young men I have the great fortune to coach, and my desire to continue to build the best football program in the country.
“We still have a lot of work to do and my staff and I are excited about the challenges ahead.”
Kelly coached the Fighting Irish to a 12-0 regular-season record and an appearance in the Discover BCS National Championship. Playing for its first national title since 1988, Notre Dame was routed by Alabama, 42-14, on Monday night.
A source told ESPN that the Eagles informed Notre Dame prior to the game of their desire to interview Kelly after it.
“There is no question we spent a considerable amount of time and effort looking at who we thought were the best collegiate candidates for our head coaching job,” the Eagles said in a statement Saturday. “We did so knowing that there was a remote chance that these coaches would leave their current posts. We understood that going into the process, but we wanted to leave no stone unturned while trying to find the best head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. We have no regrets about the effort we made in that direction and we will continue to proceed as planned in our search.”
CBSSports.com reported Wednesday the Chicago Bears also were interested in Kelly. But sources refuted that report to ESPNChicago.com.
Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick said in a statement that he wasn’t surprised by Kelly’s decision.
“I was always confident that Brian would continue to lead our football program. I am very happy to have that confirmed and share Brian’s excitement about what lies ahead for our program,” he said.
Swarbrick said he appreciated the Eagles and Kelly keeping him informed of what was going on throughout the process.
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