UCLA Names Bob Chesney as New Head Coach to Revive Football Program

UCLA football concluded a challenging 2025 campaign, finishing 3-9 after a turbulent season that saw the mid-season firing of head coach Deshaun Foster. Foster’s tenure ended after a 0-3 start, prompting the program to promote special assistant Tim Skipper to interim head coach. Skipper managed three consecutive wins, including a notable upset over Penn State, but the Bruins struggled to sustain momentum.

Despite late-season highlights, UCLA failed to find consistent success under Skipper, who is now expected to take a role with Cal Poly football. The program faced the task of securing a long-term leader capable of rebuilding the Bruins and returning them to contention in the Pac-12 and nationally.

Championship Saturday brought clarity, as UCLA announced its hiring of Bob Chesney, previously the head coach at James Madison. Chesney is tasked with transforming a program in need of stability and leadership, aiming to restore UCLA’s prominence on the college football stage.

Athletic Director Martin Jarmond praised Chesney’s vision and approach, emphasizing his ability to develop young men, connect with staff and players, and build a consistent winning culture. The announcement signals a new era for UCLA football after a season marked by upheaval and disappointment.

1. Chesney’s Track Record and Experience

Bob Chesney brings more than 25 years of coaching experience to UCLA, including a successful stint at James Madison where he guided the program to sustained competitiveness. Across his career, Chesney has compiled a 132-51 record and won eight conference championships, establishing him as a proven winner at multiple levels of college football. Chesney is recognized for his ability to rebuild programs and develop talent, with a focus on disciplined, detail-oriented preparation. His success at James Madison earned him a reputation for consistency and innovation, qualities UCLA hopes will translate to immediate improvement on the West Coast. The hiring committee noted Chesney’s emphasis on program culture, including mentoring players both on and off the field. His approach to leadership and consensus-building was a key factor in his selection over other candidates. Chesney’s experience navigating competitive conferences and postseason play positions him to guide UCLA back to contention in the Pac-12 and pursue opportunities for national recognition.

2. Immediate Challenges at UCLA

Chesney inherits a program struggling for stability after multiple coaching changes and a losing season. The Bruins must rebuild confidence among players, recruit effectively, and restore consistency in both offense and defense. Key areas of focus include developing a competitive roster capable of producing wins in the Pac-12, stabilizing the quarterback and skill positions, and enhancing the team’s overall depth. Addressing these issues will be essential for UCLA to compete at a high level in 2026 and beyond. Chesney will also need to integrate his coaching staff and establish a clear vision for practices, game planning, and player development. Building trust with athletes and fostering a positive culture will be critical in the first year of his tenure. Recruiting will play a central role in the program’s resurgence. Chesney must attract top talent to UCLA, leveraging the school’s academic profile, athletic resources, and Pac-12 platform to compete with other elite programs.

3. Vision for the Future

UCLA expects Chesney to lead a comprehensive rebuilding process, emphasizing both short-term improvement and long-term sustainability. His vision includes creating a disciplined, competitive program that can consistently challenge for conference championships. Athletic Director Martin Jarmond highlighted Chesney’s ability to connect with players and staff, noting that leadership, mentorship, and development were as important as on-field success. The administration sees him as the architect of a renewed culture for Bruins football. Chesney’s hiring also reflects UCLA’s desire to restore national relevance. By implementing proven strategies from his previous successes, the program aims to return to bowl games and contend for major conference titles. The official introduction of Chesney on December 9 will mark the formal beginning of his tenure, with the program and fans hopeful that his leadership will translate into sustained competitiveness and stability in Westwood.