Kelly denies he could leave Notre Dame: 'I am fully committed'

Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly reiterated Sunday he will return to South Bend for an eighth season in 2017.

Kelly told reporters exactly that following Notre Dame's season-closing loss to USC on Saturday, but then came reports he could explore employment opportunities elsewhere this winter.

"I felt that I was clear with the media following yesterday's game at USC when I was asked about my desire to be back as the head football coach at Notre Dame," Kelly said in a statement. "But in light of media reports that surfaced afterward, let me restate my position. I have not been, am not, and will not be interested in options outside of Notre Dame. I am fully committed to leading this program in the future."

There has been no indication the Irish would look to part with Kelly, with athletic director Jack Swarbrick saying in late-October that Kelly "will lead this team out of the tunnel" next year.

The 55-year-old is 59-31 since taking over the Irish. His 4-8 record this year marked his first losing season at Notre Dame.