The Philadelphia Eagles' search for Chip Kelly's replacement began in earnest.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Saturday that the Eagles interviewed running backs coach Duce Staley on Friday for their head coaching vacancy.
ESPN's Ed Werder first reported the news. The Eagles later confirmed the interview.
Staley played 10 NFL seasons as a running back, from 1997-2006, spending seven seasons with the Eagles. Staley spent the past five seasons on Philadelphia's coaching staff, the past three as running backs coach.
After firing Kelly this week, Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said he was looking for a coach who connects well with players in the locker room and noted he might interview coaches currently on the staff.
"I would call it a style of leadership that values information, all the resources that are provided, and at the same time values emotional intelligence," Lurie said regarding what he's looking for in a new coach. "I think in today's world, the way businesses are run and sports teams are run that a combination, and it's not easy to have, a combination of all those factors creates the best chance to succeed. In terms of the staff, no one is eliminated, every member of the staff is under contract and yes, it's possible there will be some interviews of some members of the staff."
Staley was part of the running back controversy in Philadelphia this season that included much discussion about DeMarco Murray's playing time. Multiple times this season Kelly cited Staley as the person in charge of the running backs rotation.
Staley's interview would satisfy the NFL's Rooney Rule, which requires teams to interview at least one minority candidate for head coaching positions.
Staley is highly thought of both inside and outside of the Eagles organization.