SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Brian Kelly has decided that the job he has is just fine.
After flirting with the NFL and the Philadelphia Eagles, Kelly decided today to remain as the head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
“This week, I had an incredible opportunity to speak with one of the premier organizations in sports about becoming their head coach,” said Kelly. “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.
Kelly has spent three seasons with the Irish, going 28-11 during that time. The former GVSU Lakers head coach led Notre Dame to its first ever BCS National Championship game this season, falling to Alabama 42-14 and finishing the season 12-1. Kelly joined Lou Holtz (1988) as just the second coach at Notre Dame to win 12 games in a season.
After the loss to Alabama, Kelly met with the Philadelphia Eagles to discuss their head coaching vacancy.
“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,” Kelly added.
Kelly has spent his entire coaching career climbing the professional ladder. He started at GVSU and went on to win the program’s first two national titles. He then spent the next three seasons at Central Michigan University before leaving to lead the Cincinnati Bearcats for three seasons as well.
