Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has transitioned into a coaching role, joining the UCLA Bruins as a special advisor to head coach Bob Chesney. This new endeavor allows Carr to remain actively involved in football, lending his expertise to the collegiate level. His responsibilities will include assisting with game strategies and mentoring the team's quarterbacks, including notable players Nico Iamaleava and his younger brother Madden, as well as transfers Ty Dieffenbach, Colton Gumino, and freshman DJ Bordeaux. Despite this new position, the New Orleans Saints retain control of Carr's NFL contract, leaving open the possibility of a future return to professional play if the right opportunity arises. This move signals a potential new career path for Carr, offering him a platform to impart his knowledge to aspiring athletes.
Carr Embraces New Challenge as Special Advisor to UCLA Head Coach Bob Chesney
On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the UCLA Bruins officially announced the appointment of Derek Carr, formerly the quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, as a special advisor to their head coach, Bob Chesney. This significant development marks Carr's first foray into coaching at the Division I collegiate level. His new role is set to encompass crucial aspects of team development, including strategic game planning and focused training for the Bruins' quarterback roster. Head Coach Bob Chesney, who recently arrived at UCLA following two successful seasons with James Madison, where he guided the Dukes to a commendable 21-6 record and a spot in the 2025 College Football Playoff, will benefit from Carr's seasoned perspective. Carr's current status is officially retired from playing, yet his contract with the New Orleans Saints is still active, meaning any NFL team wishing to acquire his services would need to negotiate a trade with the Saints. This unique arrangement provides Carr with a flexible pathway to explore coaching while keeping his options open for a potential return to the professional league. The young quarterbacks under Carr's guidance at UCLA include 25-game starter Nico Iamaleava, his sibling Madden, junior transfer Ty Dieffenbach, scout-team member Colton Gumino, and emerging talent DJ Bordeaux from Aurora, Colorado. Carr's presence is expected to significantly enhance the development of these promising players.
Derek Carr's transition into collegiate advisory work is an intriguing pivot for a player of his caliber. It suggests a thoughtful approach to his post-playing career, allowing him to contribute meaningfully to the sport he loves, even if it's not from under center. This opportunity at UCLA not only offers him valuable coaching experience but also keeps him connected to the competitive football landscape. For the UCLA program, securing an individual with Carr's NFL experience is undoubtedly a coup, providing their young quarterbacks with a mentor who understands the intricacies of the game at its highest level. It will be fascinating to observe how this new chapter unfolds for Carr and what impact his guidance will have on the Bruins' future performance.
