Uncertainty still surrounds Chip Kelly's destination

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The uncertainty surrounding Chip Kellys future in the NFL appeared to clear up Friday evening when the NFL Network reported that Kelly and the Browns were on the brink of a long-term contract.

Apparently, the uncertainty is back.

An ESPN report late Friday night said Kelly, the University of Oregon coach, and the Browns met for about seven hours Friday but that Kelly still had an interview scheduled Saturday with the Eagles and one with the Bills on Friday. The report cited league and team sources, though its unclear which team the source represented.

The Bills confirmed late Friday night that they had interviewed Kelly.

The Eagles have long been rumored to covet Kelly and at one time were expected to meet with him in Phoenix after Thursday nights Fiesta Bowl, a 35-17 Oregon win over Kansas State. But two team sources told CSNPhilly.com that Kelly is on their list but not their top priority.

One source on Friday said the teams search committee -- owner Jeffrey Lurie, president Don Smolenski and general manager Howie Roseman -- was in Philadelphia all day, not Phoenix.

The Eagles, who have already interviewed two Falcons assistants and Penn State coach Bill OBrien, have announced their intentions to interview Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy on Sunday. They also plan to meet with Colts offensive coordinator Bruce Arians and Seahawks defensive coordinator Gus Bradley next week.

Kelly, 49, said after the Fiesta Bowl that he had hoped to have his interviews wrapped up quickly. The Browns, headed by former Eagles president Joe Banner, are still the frontrunner, according to the ESPN report, which also said that there arent any major obstacles that would prevent a deal from taking place by Saturday night.

Kelly last year turned down an offer from Tampa Bay to coach the Ducks for his fourth season. His record at Oregon is 46-7.

E-mail Geoff Mosher at gmosher@comcastsportsnet.com.

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