Derek Carr announces return to football with new job after six NFL teams reached out: “Let’s get it”

Derek Carr is returning to football, but he has made it clear an NFL comeback is not part of his plans.

On Monday, UCLA announced that Carr is joining as a special advisor to new head Bob Chesney, working with the quarterbacks and assisting with game-planning strategy.

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Carr reacted to the announcement, retweeting UCLA’s post with the caption: “Let’s get it!”.

It’s a huge boost for the program, with Carr expected to lend his expertise to standout quarterback Nico Iamaleava, who has struggled after transfering from Tennessee.

Iamaleava set career highs in rushing yards (505) and rushing touchdowns (four) last season, though he was less effective through the air (1,928 yards, 13 touchdowns, seven interceptions). 

“We are excited to welcome Derek to our program,” Chesney said in the school’s press release.

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“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.”

Chesney was brought in by the program after he led James Madison to a Sun Belt championship and College Football Playoff.

He then brought in Darrick Yray to be general manager. Carr and Yray overlapped at Fresno State from 2011-2013.

“I’ve known Darrick for a long time and have great respect for the work he’s done throughout his career,” Carr said on his ‘Home Grown’ podcast.

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“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.” 

UCLA opens the 2026 season at California on September 5 before hosting San Diego State at the Rose Bowl on September 12.

Carr snubbed NFL comeback for coaching career

Despite being just 34, Carr retired indefinitely from the NFL after doctors found a labral tear and significant degenerative changes in his right shoulder while he was preparing for the 2025 season.

Multiple NFL franchises remained interested, however, and Carr revealed that six teams had reached out to him with an opportunity to return.

Only two opportunities interested him, though, and Carr said he would un-retire to mentor Fernando Mendoza with the Raiders before they eventually turned to veteran Kirk Cousins instead.

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“I’m not playing,” Carr said, later adding, “I am coaching.”

Carr played his first nine seasons for the then-Oakland, now Las Vegas, Raiders, and the last two campaigns of his career with the New Orleans Saints.

He is the Raiders’ all-time leader in completions (3,201), passing touchdowns (217) and passing yards (35,222).