Derek Carr Joins UCLA Football Staff as Special Advisor

Former NFL quarterback Derek Carr, known for his time with the Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints, surprised many when he retired after the 2024 season. Despite rumors that he might come out of retirement for quarterback-needy teams, Carr stayed away until recently.

The UCLA football team revealed on Monday that it has hired Carr as a special advisor to new head coach Bob Chesney. Carr, a four-time Pro Bowler and former NCAA passing yards and touchdowns leader, will now lend his expertise to the Bruins.

I’ve known (UCLA general manager) Darrick (Yray) for a long time and have great respect for the work he’s done throughout his career. Carr stated in a release. 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.

According to UCLA, Carr’s role will include assisting with game-planning strategy and working closely with the team’s quarterbacks.

Carr concluded an 11-year NFL career with 41,245 yards, 257 touchdowns, 112 interceptions, and a 92.8 passer rating. His college career at Fresno State was remarkable, where he amassed 12,843 passing yards, 113 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions over four seasons.

In his final two seasons at Fresno State, Carr led the team to a 20-6 record, achieving 5,083 passing yards, 50 touchdowns, and eight interceptions in his last year. He earned two Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year awards and the 2013 Sammy Baugh Trophy, recognizing the nation’s top passer.