Chip Kelly is reportedly close to a deal that would send him on his way to the Cleveland Browns.

BREAKING: Chip Kelly is close to a deal to become the #Browns coach, according to a source informed of his situation.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 4, 2013

I'll be more than intrigued to see what Kelly comes up with at the next level. The Browns aren't the most ideal fit in personnel, but they might be willing to give him control and see what he comes up with. I'm intrigued and will be interested in what Kelly comes up with the NFL. He's a first-rate football mind and was one of our toughest foes in and out.

It's interesting that Kelly seems to be departing the Pac-12 at the same time as Jeff Tedford, since Tedford's decline appeared to start with that 42-3 game in Kelly's first Pac-12 game as contest. That really signalled the beginning of the era of the Ducks and the end for Tedford and the Bears. Now both teams will have new coaches patrolling the sidelines.

Don't expect the Oregon offense to go anywhere with Kelly gone. Mark Helfrich figures to be promoted as Oregon's next head coach and will be keeping the same offense regardless. Cal vs. Oregon still figures to be full of fireworks next year.

Discuss.