A New Chapter for Derek Carr
Former NFL quarterback Derek Carr has joined UCLA's football program as a special adviser, bringing his 11 years of professional football experience to Westwood. The move adds a four-time Pro Bowler to the Bruins' coaching infrastructure as the program enters its second season in the Big Ten. Carr's role is expected to focus on quarterback mentorship, offensive strategy consultation, and player development, leveraging his extensive experience from both the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and New Orleans Saints.
Carr's NFL Pedigree
Carr was selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders out of Fresno State. He spent nine seasons with the Raiders organization (2014-2022), becoming the franchise's all-time leader in passing yards (35,222) and passing touchdowns (217). He earned Pro Bowl selections in 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2022. Carr later signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2023, where he started 23 games over two seasons before stepping away from professional football. His career totals include over 41,000 passing yards and 257 touchdowns, placing him among the most productive quarterbacks of his generation.
Why UCLA?
UCLA is entering a critical season under head coach DeShaun Foster, who is in his third year leading the program. The Bruins went 5-7 in their inaugural Big Ten campaign in 2025, struggling to find consistency on offense. Carr's addition provides Foster with an experienced offensive mind who can help develop the Bruins' quarterback room and provide NFL-level perspective on offensive game planning. UCLA's proximity to Carr's Southern California roots — he played high school football in Bakersfield — likely factored into the decision.
Impact on UCLA's Quarterback Room
UCLA's quarterback situation has been in flux since the departure of Ethan Garbers to the NFL. The Bruins have been evaluating multiple options during preseason camp, and Carr's presence adds a veteran mentor who has seen every defensive scheme at the highest level. His experience with West Coast offense principles — honed under coaches like Jon Gruden and Dennis Allen — should translate well to the college game, where efficiency-based passing concepts are increasingly prevalent.
The Growing Trend of NFL-to-College Moves
Carr's appointment follows a broader trend of former NFL players taking advisory roles in college football programs. As the transfer portal and NIL era have blurred the lines between college and professional football, programs are increasingly seeking NFL-experienced voices to help prepare players for the next level. Carr joins a growing list of former NFL stars who have found second careers in college football, bringing credibility and professional insight that resonates with players aspiring to reach the NFL.
What This Means for CFB 27
In College Football 27 Dynasty mode, hiring NFL-experienced staff is a key feature of the Coaching Carousel system. Coaches with NFL backgrounds typically command higher salaries but offer recruiting advantages, particularly for developing quarterback prospects. UCLA in CFB 27 is a 3-star program with strong academic prestige and a fertile California recruiting base — a classic rebuild challenge. Adding a special adviser like Carr in the real world mirrors the kind of staff upgrades that CFB 27 players can make to boost their program's quarterback development rating and NFL draft preparation pipeline.
