UCLA Football announced today the addition of former NFL quarterback Derek Carr as a special advisor to head coach Bob Chesney, the Angelo M. Mazzone III UCLA Head Football Coach. Carr will assist Chesney and the Bruins' offensive staff with game-planning strategy while also working with UCLA's quarterbacks.
"We are excited to welcome Derek to our program," Chesney said. "He has played the quarterback position at a high level for more than a decade, and his experience, leadership and football knowledge will be an incredible resource for our coaching staff and student-athletes. What stands out most is his passion for the game and his commitment to developing young people. Derek will have a tremendous impact on our players and is a great addition to our program.”
Bruins General Manager Darrick Yray began his coaching career at Fresno State, serving as an offensive assistant and assistant director of football operations from 2008-14 during Carr's collegiate career with the Bulldogs.
"I've known Darrick for a long time and have great respect for the work he's done throughout his career," Carr said. "The opportunity to help Coach Chesney, the staff and the quarterbacks at UCLA was one that really excited me. I'm looking forward to sharing my experiences and helping support the program in any way I can."
Carr played 11 seasons in the NFL with the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints, earning four Pro Bowl selections and finishing his career with 41,245 passing yards and 257 touchdown passes. A second-round selection in the 2014 NFL Draft, Carr remains the Raiders' all-time leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns and completions. He announced his retirement in May 2025 following a distinguished professional career.
Prior to the NFL, Carr starred at Fresno State, where he was a two-time Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year and the recipient of the 2013 Sammy Baugh Trophy as the nation's top passer. He led the nation with 5,083 passing yards and 50 touchdown passes as a senior and finished his collegiate career with 12,842 passing yards and 113 touchdowns. His No. 4 jersey was later retired by Fresno State.
The Bruins will begin the 2026 season on Saturday, Sept. 5, at California before hosting San Diego State in their home opener on Sept. 12 at 4:15 p.m. PT at the Rose Bowl Stadium.