Northwestern football made significant moves this offseason, starting with a major change on the offensive side of the ball. The Wildcats hired Chip Kelly as their offensive coordinator, bringing in a coach with extensive experience at both the college and NFL levels. Kelly most recently spent time at Ohio State, where he was part of a national championship-winning staff, and while his recent stint with the Las Vegas Raiders was a down year, a return to the college game could be exactly what he needs to get back to his roots.
Kelly’s success has historically come at the collegiate level, where his high-powered West Coast-based system has consistently produced explosive offenses. At Northwestern, he will have the opportunity to implement that system with a staff filled with experienced assistants he trusts.
One of those hires is Jerry Neuheisel, who joins the Wildcats as quarterbacks coach after spending eight seasons at UCLA. Neuheisel took over play-calling duties midway through last season following a 0-4 start, and the results were immediate. In his first game calling plays, UCLA stunned then-No. 7 Penn State with a 42-37 victory at the Rose Bowl on Oct. 4. At just 33 years old, Neuheisel has built a reputation as one of the top young offensive minds in college football, with a strong track record of quarterback development.
Northwestern also added Bob Bicknell as its tight ends coach. Bicknell most recently served as a senior offensive assistant with the Las Vegas Raiders during the 2025 season after a one-year stint as tight ends coach with the New England Patriots in 2024. During his time in New England, Bicknell played a key role in Hunter Henry’s success, as Henry finished eighth among NFL tight ends with 674 receiving yards. With more than 30 years of coaching experience at both the NFL and collegiate levels, Bicknell adds veteran leadership and proven development to the staff.
Another important addition is Tim Drevno, who was hired as the offensive line coach. Drevno brings over 20 years of coaching experience and most recently served as a consultant at Texas. He has previously worked alongside Kelly at Ohio State and UCLA and has coached at programs such as Michigan, USC and with the San Francisco 49ers. His familiarity with Kelly’s system should help the offensive line transition smoothly.
Overall, Northwestern’s offensive staff hires reflect a clear commitment to experience, player development and system continuity. With the transfer portal playing a major role this offseason, it will be interesting to see how this staff reshapes the roster, and how that work translates to production once the season begins.
