Eagles' Lurie: Kelly's relationship with players factored into decision to move on

The Philadelphia Eagles made a surprise move Tuesday night by dismissing Chip Kelly, a decision owner Jeff Lurie says was done to ensure the head coach was held accountable.

"I wanted to make Chip accountable," Lurie said Wednesday during a press conference. "If you want to make those decisions, be accountable for them."

Lurie cited Kelly's relationships with players as one of the many factors that influenced the decision, but said his much-publicized plane conversation with running back DeMarco Murray "had zero to do with this."

The firing was done Tuesday to give both the Eagles and Kelly a head start on their respective job interviews, Lurie said.

Lurie also confirmed that Kelly insisted on having control of personnel.

"Sometimes the risks don't work," he said. "In this case they didn't."

Moving forward, Lurie said he's looking for a "more collaborative approach between the coaches and player personnel" and won't be hiring a general manager. Executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman will will oversee the personnel department, with senior football advisor Tom Donahoe in charge of day-to-day operations.

As for Kelly's replacement, Lurie said he's open to any and all coaches provided they're the best candidate available. He wants a "smart, strategic thinker" who interacts and communicates well, and "values emotional intelligence."