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Brian Kelly to stay at Notre Dame

Notre Dame football coach Brian Kelly talks with a referee during the Purdue game Sept. 8, 2012 in South Bend, Ind. (AP Photo/Joe Raymond)
Notre Dame football coach Brian Kelly talks with a referee during the Purdue game Sept. 8, 2012 in South Bend, Ind. (AP Photo/Joe Raymond)Read more

Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly has elected to stay in South Bend after a flirtation with the Eagles, according to various reports.

Kelly becomes the third high-profile college coach linked to the Eagles to ultimately decide to stay at his school after interviewing with the team. He met with owner Jeffrey Lurie, general manager Howie Roseman and team president Don Smolenski on Tuesday, a day after the Irish lost to Alabama, 42-14, in the national championship.

"There is no question we spent a considerable amount of time and effort looking at who we thought were the best collegiate candidates for our head coaching job. We did so knowing that there was a remote chance that these coaches would leave their current posts.

"We understood that going into the process, but we wanted to leave no stone unturned while trying to find the best head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. We have no regrets about the effort we made in that direction and we will continue to proceed as planned in our search."

Kelly then went on a vacation and returned today. He was expected to meet with the Eagles a second time, but it was unclear if there was a second interview.

There was speculation that Kelly was using the Eagles to get more money out of Notre Dame, as Oregon coach Chip Kelly and Penn State coach Bill O'Brien reportedly did with their schools after interviewing with the Eagles.

"Like every kid who has ever put on a pair of football cleats, I have had thoughts about being a part of the NFL," Kelly said in a statement. "However, after much reflection and conversation with those closest to me, I have decided to remain at Notre Dame."

The Eagles are scheduled to meet with Seahawks defensive coordinator Gus Bradley tonight in Atlanta, an NFL source said. Bradley is believed to be high on the Eagles' list, as were both Kellys and O'Brien.

Interviews are also set for Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden (Monday) and Colts offensive coordinator Bruce Arians (Tuesday).