Derek Carr Joins UCLA Football as Special Advisor to Bob Chesney

UCLA Brings in Derek Carr as Special Advisor

UCLA Football has added Derek Carr as a special advisor to head coach Bob Chesney, the program announced. The move brings a high-profile NFL name into the Bruins' coaching structure as Chesney works to build his staff following his hire as head coach.

Carr, who spent over a decade as a starting quarterback in the NFL, most notably with the Las Vegas Raiders and later the New Orleans Saints, transitions into an advisory role at his alma mater. He played college football at Fresno State, not UCLA, but his professional pedigree gives the Bruins a connection to the highest level of the game.

The exact scope of Carr's responsibilities has not been detailed publicly beyond the special advisor designation, but the title typically involves counsel on player development, quarterback mechanics, and program culture.

What the Role Means for the Bruins Program

Bob Chesney is in the early stages of shaping UCLA Football after taking over as head coach. Adding a figure like Carr signals an intent to bring credibility and NFL-level insight into the building, particularly at the quarterback position.

Special advisor roles in college football have grown more common as programs look for creative ways to attract experienced voices without filling a traditional on-field coaching slot. Carr's familiarity with NFL offenses and his experience reading defenses at the pro level could benefit UCLA quarterbacks preparing for the next level.

Chesney previously built a strong record at Elon University before landing the UCLA job, and assembling a staff with recognizable names helps in recruiting and program visibility within the competitive Big Ten landscape.

Carr's Background and What He Brings

Derek Carr was selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Over his career he threw for more than 35,000 yards and was selected to multiple Pro Bowls. He was with the New Orleans Saints before stepping away from playing. That playing career gives him firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed under pressure at the game's highest level.

For UCLA quarterbacks and skill players, access to a veteran who played in multiple offensive systems over more than a decade is a tangible resource. Carr can speak credibly about preparation, film study, and the adjustments required to compete professionally, topics that resonate with recruits and current players alike.

The Bruins are entering a new chapter under Chesney, and moves like this one reflect an effort to differentiate the program and attract talent to Westwood. Whether Carr's involvement deepens over time remains to be seen, but his addition is a notable development as spring practice and the offseason program take shape.