UPDATE: UCLA has officially hired Bob Chesney as its new football coach, just hours after he led James Madison to the Sun Belt Conference championship. This pivotal announcement comes as UCLA prepares for significant changes ahead of the upcoming season, with Chesney scheduled to be introduced on campus this Tuesday.
Chesney’s hiring marks a critical moment for the Bruins, who finished a disappointing 3-9 last season. His impressive track record includes a 132-51 overall coaching record, including an impressive 21-5 tenure at James Madison. As he transitions to UCLA, questions arise about which members of his successful staff he may bring along, especially considering the potential for a talent overhaul necessary to elevate the Bruins’ performance.
Chesney is expected to retain key assistants, with potential candidates like offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy and defensive coordinator Colin Hitschler in the mix. Both coaches have extensive experience, with Kennedy previously serving in the Southeastern Conference and Hitschler coaching at Alabama. Their combined expertise could provide UCLA with an edge it has lacked in recent years.
UCLA’s season opener against California on September 5 will be Chesney’s debut at the Football Bowl Subdivision level. As the first sitting head coach hired by UCLA since 1971, his arrival is generating excitement but also urgency. The Bruins are in dire need of talent, having had no first-, second-, or third-team All-Big Ten selections last season.
With the transfer portal opening on January 2, 2026, a critical date for UCLA, Chesney faces an immediate challenge to retain top players and reactivate recruiting efforts. Notable Bruins like Rico Flores Jr. have entered the portal, highlighting the pressing need for a strategic roster rebuild.
Chesney’s past accomplishments at James Madison, where he celebrated a record 20 All-Sun Belt Conference selections this season, including Player of the Year Alonza Barnett III, underscore his capability to attract talent. He will need to prioritize keeping stars like quarterback Nico Iamaleava and wide receiver Kwazi Gilmer to secure a competitive edge for the Bruins.
As UCLA transitions to new branding initiatives, including a partnership with Champion of Westwood for NIL operations, the focus remains on creating a cohesive and competitive program. Chesney is known for emphasizing “competency, connection, and chemistry” in his coaching staff, which will be crucial for the Bruins as they embark on this new chapter.
Fans and alumni are eager to see how Chesney’s history of success will translate to UCLA, and the upcoming days will be pivotal. Expect further developments as he shapes his coaching staff and begins the crucial recruiting process, making every move count in the lead-up to the new season.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and watch for the impact of Chesney’s decisions on the future of UCLA football.
