(BCSNN) -- UCLA Football announced that former NFL quarterback Derek Carr has joined the program as a special advisor to head coach Bob Chesney, the Angelo M. Mazzone III UCLA Head Football Coach. Carr will assist with game‑planning strategy and work directly with the Bruins’ 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.”

Bruins General Manager Darrick Yray began his coaching career at Fresno State during Carr’s collegiate tenure, serving as an offensive assistant and assistant director of football operations from 2008–14.

“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.”

Carr played 11 NFL seasons with the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints, earning four Pro Bowl selections and finishing his career with 41,245 passing yards and 257 touchdown passes. A second‑round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, he remains the Raiders’ all‑time leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns and completions. He announced his retirement in May 2025.

Before the NFL, Carr starred at Fresno State, where he was a two‑time Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year and won the 2013 Sammy Baugh Trophy as the nation’s top passer. He led the country with 5,083 passing yards and 50 touchdowns as a senior and finished his college career with 12,842 yards and 113 touchdowns. Fresno State later retired his No. 4 jersey.

UCLA opens the 2026 season on Saturday, Sept. 5, at California before hosting San Diego State in its home opener on Sept. 12 at 4:15 p.m. PT at the Rose Bowl Stadium.