Former Philadelphia Eagles DeSean Jackson and LeSean McCoy have spoken out about their experiences playing under coach Chip Kelly, suggesting that he was uncomfortable around Black players. On their podcast, The 25/10 Show, they shared their thoughts on Kelly’s tenure from 2013 to 2015, during which he had control over personnel decisions.
McCoy recalled instances where Kelly’s interactions with Black players were questionable, saying, “I’ve never met a coach that was uncomfortable with dealing with Black players… most of the players are Black.” He shared specific examples, including times when his running back coach, Duce Staley, would critique him using language that didn’t sound like Staley’s own words. When McCoy confronted Kelly about it, he wouldn’t say it exactly as he told the other coach to say it.
Jackson and McCoy also discussed how Kelly’s behavior affected the team, with McCoy stating that even white players noticed the discomfort. In one instance, Kelly allegedly asked cornerback Roc Carmichael to cut his hair, which McCoy saw as a prime example of Kelly’s issues working with Black players.
Their comments have sparked a larger conversation about the importance of cultural understanding and empathy in coaching and leadership roles, particularly in a league dominated by Black players. As the NFL continues to evolve, it’s crucial to address and learn from these concerns to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all players.