Irish Fans, Recruits Left Wondering About Kelly

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — So just how serious is Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly about leaving for the NFL? That's what Irish fans want to know after learning he had interviewed with the Philadelphia Eagles the day after his team lost in the BCS title game.

Former Big Eight Commissioner Chuck Neinas says the advice he gives to coaches is that they should interview only if they are interested in the job. But sports attorney Darren Heitner says Kelly owed it to himself to at least talk with the Eagles, calling it the "most beautiful bargaining chip" he has.

Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick told reporters Sunday in Florida he planned to talk to Kelly about extending his contract. Swarbrick has not responded to messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.