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UCLA Installs Bob Chesney as Head Coach, Vows Bigger Investment in Football

Chesney will finish James Madison’s playoff run before fully shifting to Westwood under a five-year, $33.75 million deal.

Overview

  • At his Dec. 9 introduction, UCLA confirmed Chesney will coach James Madison in its College Football Playoff game at Oregon on Dec. 20 before transitioning full time.
  • UCLA set Chesney’s contract at five years and $33.75 million, averaging $6.75 million annually.
  • Search-committee member Bob Myers said UCLA has committed to resources intended to place the program in the Big Ten’s top third, possibly top quartile, for staffing and support.
  • Reports indicate James Madison offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy is expected to follow Chesney to UCLA as offensive coordinator, preserving continuity from a top-10 scoring offense.
  • The search included prominent alumni such as Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and Myers, reflecting broad institutional buy-in as Chesney arrives with a 132-51 career record and a reputation for rebuilding programs.