There was a lot of speculation this offseason as to what Derek Carr's future would be. The former Saints and Raiders QB retired from football last May. But the 35-year-old was talking as if he would welcome a return to the field. Turns out he will be. If the practice field and the sideline counts.
Monday UCLA announced Carr would be joining the coaching staff
as a special advisor to head coahc Bob Chesney.According to the release 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.”
Carr's connection to the program comes from GM Darrick Yray who was an offensive assistant at Fresno State from 2008-14 during Carr's entire collegiate career (2010-13) 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."
After a successful college career at Fresno State, he was selected by the Oakland Raiders with the 36th overall pick in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He spent the first nine years of his career with the Raiders, starting 142 games. He was cut following the 2022 season and signed on with the Saints, playing the final two seasons in New Orleans in 2023 and 2024.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Former Raiders QB Derek Carr joining UCLA coaching staff
