Home Sweet Home: Chad Kelly Returns to Ole Miss as Director of Player Development.
Oxford, Miss. – A familiar face is returning to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Former Ole Miss quarterback Chad Kelly has been named the Rebels’ new Director of Player Development, marking a homecoming for one of the program’s most dynamic and memorable signal-callers.
Kelly, who led Ole Miss during the 2015 and 2016 seasons, was known for his fiery competitiveness, strong arm, and big-play ability. He etched his name into Rebel history by guiding the team to a Sugar Bowl victory over Oklahoma State and setting multiple school records along the way. Now, nearly a decade after thrilling fans on the field, Kelly steps into a developmental role off the field, aiming to mentor the next generation of Rebels.
In his new position, Kelly will focus on helping student-athletes with life skills, leadership, and personal growth — areas he knows well from experience. His journey, which included overcoming adversity and maturing through professional stints in the NFL and CFL, brings a valuable perspective to young players navigating the pressures of college athletics.
“It’s an honor to come back to the place that helped shape me,” Kelly said in a statement. “Ole Miss gave me an opportunity, and now I’m grateful to give back and support these players in becoming their best on and off the field.”
Head coach Lane Kiffin praised the hire, citing Kelly’s passion for the program and relatability with players. “Chad’s been through it all — the highs, the lows — and our guys can learn a lot from someone who’s lived it,” Kiffin said.
As Kelly settles back into Oxford, his presence promises to bring a mix of energy, wisdom, and inspiration to a Rebels program looking to build on recent success.
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