Blue Chip: Kelly Announced as Next Coach of UCLA Football

The Bruins have gotten their first choice to be their next head coach as the school has officially announced the hiring of Chip Kelly. Kelly has agreed to a 5-year, $23.3 million deal which includes a $9 million reciprocal buyout.

"I am thrilled to welcome Chip Kelly to Westwood," said Dan Guerrero. "His success speaks for itself, but more than that, I firmly believe that his passion for the game and his innovative approach to coaching student-athletes make him the perfect fit for our program. 'Champions Made Here' is more than just a mantra at UCLA, and I'm confident that Chip will lead UCLA Football back to competing for championships. I'd like to thank Josh Rebholz, Casey Wasserman and Troy Aikman for their input during this process, as their candor, experience and support were invaluable."

"It is an absolute honor to join the Bruin Family, and I am grateful to Chancellor Block and to Dan Guerrero for this incredible opportunity," said Kelly. "UCLA is a world-class institution with a distinguished history in athletics, and we will do our part to uphold its tradition of excellence."

"I am pleased to welcome Chip Kelly to UCLA, confident that he will work tirelessly to focus on the whole student, both as an athlete and as a scholar," said UCLA Chancellor Gene Block. "In my discussion with Coach Kelly, I sensed a sincere commitment to help our student-athletes become the best that they can be. I look forward to his presence in Westwood."

Kelly will be formally introduced on campus Monday afternoon.