Derek Carr Joins UCLA as Voluntary Advisor

Derek Carr has joined UCLA as a voluntary special advisor to head coach Bob Chesney, assisting with offensive game-planning and quarterback development, including work with both starting and backup quarterbacks. He is a four-time Pro Bowler with extensive Raiders and Saints experience. UCLA notes Carr’s leadership and football knowledge will benefit the program, and his connection to UCLA general manager Darrick Yray—who overlapped with Carr at Fresno State—factored into the arrangement. Carr, who retired in 2025 after an 11-year NFL career, has left the door open to a potential NFL return while taking on this coaching role. Reports and statements emphasize Carr’s desire to share his experiences and help develop players, describing the arrangement as a meaningful addition to UCLA’s operation. Carr’s past success and ties to Fresno State provide context for why UCLA pursued him in this capacity.