Derek Carr joins UCLA football staff as special adviser to Bob Chesney

UCLA announced on Monday that former NFL quarterback Derek Carr has joined the Bruins' football program as a special adviser to first-year head coach Bob Chesney. Carr, a four-time Pro Bowler, spent more than a decade as a starter in the NFL with the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and the New Orleans Saints before his playing career concluded.

Carr did not attend UCLA, having played his college football at Fresno State. The connection to the Bruins' program is believed to run through UCLA general manager Darrick Yray, who was a member of the Fresno State coaching staff during Carr's time with the Bulldogs. Carr had also visited the UCLA football program earlier this year ahead of the formal arrangement.

We are excited to welcome Derek to our program. 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.

— UCLA head coach Bob Chesney

The specific scope of Carr's advisory role has not been fully detailed, though his presence is expected to benefit the program's quarterbacks in particular. UCLA's current starting quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, operates with a different skill set than Carr possessed, but the experience of a longtime NFL starter is considered a valuable resource as Iamaleava develops and eyes a future professional opportunity.

I've known Darrick for a long time and have great respect for the work he's done throughout his career. 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.

— Derek Carr

Beyond the on-field development angle, the addition of a recognizable name in Carr is expected to assist UCLA's recruiting efforts. Chesney, who is in his first season leading the Bruins, now has a high-profile former NFL starter available as both an adviser and a draw for prospective players considering the program.