Full Breakdown
UCLA Hires Bob Chesney as New Head Football Coach
12/7/2025, 12:09:53 AM
Overview of the Coaching Change
UCLA has officially announced the hiring of Bob Chesney as its new head football coach, following a tumultuous season that culminated in a 3-9 record. The announcement came on December 6, 2025, just hours after Chesney led James Madison University to a Sun Belt Conference championship victory. This marks a significant shift for the Bruins, as Chesney becomes the 20th head coach in the program's history and the first sitting head coach hired since Pepper Rodgers in 1971.
Background and Context
Chesney, 48, has a proven track record of success at various collegiate levels, including NCAA Division III, Division II, and Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). He compiled a 132-51 career record, with notable achievements at Holy Cross and James Madison, where he led the Dukes to a 21-5 record over two seasons. His tenure at James Madison included a conference title and a potential berth in the College Football Playoff.
The Bruins' previous head coach, DeShaun Foster, was fired after an 0-3 start to the 2025 season, leading to interim coach Tim Skipper's brief leadership. Skipper has since accepted a position at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
Official Statements & Responses
UCLA Athletic Director Martin Jarmond expressed confidence in Chesney's ability to elevate the program, stating, “Bob Chesney has built programs into consistent winners at every stop in his career, and he’s ready to do it at UCLA.” Chesney himself emphasized the potential of UCLA, noting, “UCLA is a very special place... This is a program that can and will win at the highest level.”
Key Figures & Groups
Chesney's hiring was facilitated by a search committee that included notable figures such as Casey Wasserman, Bob Myers, Adam Peters, and Eric Kendricks. The committee's decision was influenced by Chesney's successful coaching history and his vision for the Bruins.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Chesney's hiring, some critics point to the challenges he faces in reviving a program that has struggled since joining the Big Ten. The Bruins have not been bowl-eligible since 2023, and there are concerns about the talent level on the current roster, which lacked any All-Big Ten selections in the recent season.
What's Next
Chesney's immediate focus will be on retaining key players from the current roster and navigating the transfer portal, which opens on January 2, 2026. He has already begun recruiting, securing commitments from three players, including quarterback DJ Bordeaux, who followed him from James Madison.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Through our many conversations, it became abundantly clear to me that UCLA is willing to do what it takes to build a championship-level program.” — Bob Chesney, UCLA Head Coach
- “He's a leader, a consensus builder and a developer of young men.” — Martin Jarmond, UCLA Athletic Director
Chesney's introductory press conference is scheduled for December 9, where he will outline his vision for the future of UCLA football.
