Former NFL quarterback Derek Carr has been hired as a special advisor to UCLA head coach Bob Chesney, bringing 11 seasons of professional experience to the Bruins’ offensive staff, according to an official program announcement. Carr will focus on game-planning strategy and quarterback development for the upcoming season, joining a coaching staff that includes General Manager Darrick Yray, a former colleague from their shared tenure at Fresno State.
Derek Carr UCLA Role and Coaching Staff Connections
According to the official announcement, Derek Carr will assist head coach Bob Chesney and the offensive staff with game-planning strategy while working directly with UCLA quarterbacks. Bruins General Manager Darrick Yray previously worked alongside Carr at Fresno State from 2008 to 2014, serving as an offensive assistant and assistant director of football operations during Carr’s collegiate career, per program records. “I’ve known Darrick for a long time and have great respect for the work he’s done throughout his career,” Carr stated in the announcement. “The opportunity to help Coach Chesney, the staff and the quarterbacks at UCLA was one that really excited me.” Chesney highlighted Carr’s background, noting that his decade-long playing career provides an incredible resource for student-athletes.
Did you know? Derek Carr was selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft and spent 11 seasons in the league with the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints before announcing his retirement in May 2025, according to program data.
Professional and Collegiate Football Career Achievements
During his 11-year NFL career, Carr earned four Pro Bowl selections and finished with 41,245 passing yards and 257 touchdown passes, according to team statistics. He remains the Raiders’ all-time franchise leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns, and completions. Prior to the professional ranks, Carr starred at Fresno State, where official records show he earned two Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year honors and won the 2013 Sammy Baugh Trophy as the nation’s top passer. As a senior, he led the country with 5,083 passing yards and 50 touchdown passes, culminating in 12,842 career passing yards and 113 touchdowns before Fresno State retired his No. 4 jersey.
UCLA Bruins 2026 Football Schedule Outlook
The UCLA Bruins open their schedule on Saturday, Sept. 5, with a road matchup against California, according to the athletic department. Following the season opener, the team returns home for its home opener against San Diego State on Sept. 12 at 4:15 p.m. PT at the Rose Bowl Stadium. With Carr joining the offensive staff, the program aims to integrate his professional insights into the quarterback room ahead of the fall campaign.
Pro Tip for Fans
To stay updated on roster developments and game times for the upcoming season, check the official UCLA athletics schedule and follow the team’s media channels for training camp reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Derek Carr’s new role at UCLA?
Derek Carr serves as a special advisor to head coach Bob Chesney, assisting with game-planning strategy and working with UCLA’s quarterbacks, according to the program announcement.
How long did Derek Carr play in the NFL?
Carr played 11 seasons in the NFL with the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints, earning four Pro Bowl selections before retiring in May 2025, per official records.
When does the UCLA football team start the season?
The Bruins begin the 2026 season on Saturday, Sept. 5, against California, followed by their home opener against San Diego State on Sept. 12 at the Rose Bowl Stadium.
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