DEREK CARR JOINS UCLA AS SPECIAL ADVISER TO HEAD COACH

UCLA has appointed Derek Carr, a former quarterback for the Raiders and Saints, as a special adviser to head coach Bob Chesney. Carr will assist Chesney and the offensive staff with game-planning and work directly with UCLA's quarterbacks. The appointment marks Carr's return to football in a non-playing capacity following his final season in 2024. Carr has no previous connection to UCLA, having played college football at Fresno State.

UCLA General Manager Darrick Yray, who worked as an assistant at Fresno State during Carr's time there, facilitated the hire. Carr stated he had long known Yray and respected his work throughout his career. The quarterback said the opportunity to support Chesney's programme and share his experience with the UCLA quarterbacks appealed to him. Chesney is in his first season as UCLA's head coach.

Carr, selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, has previously indicated interest in potentially returning to play in the NFL. The New Orleans Saints retain his rights, meaning any NFL team seeking to sign him would need to negotiate with the Saints first. His appointment to UCLA comes as the Bruins seek to build momentum under their new head coach.