The Facts: KGW-TV in Portland reports that Oregon coach Chip Kelly is close to becoming the coach of the Buccaneers. “Kelly is in the process of finalizing a deal that would make him the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers,” Michael Berk of KGW Sports writes. “A source close to the situation said Kelly will make the jump to the NFL if he can come to terms on a contract.”
Diehards Line:As PFT's Mike Florio suggested, Kelly and the Bucs will likely deny the report until a deal is done. Otherwise, Kelly’s incoming recruits will face a barrage from Oregon’s competitors regarding the possibility that Kelly won’t be the coach when the new class of players start their second year with the school. ... Meanwhile, Florio further noted that former Bucs and Colts HC Tony Dungy identified Kelly as NFL worthy more than a week ago. “Chip knows how to motivate people,” Dungy said. “He thinks outside the box. ..." Stay tuned.