UCLA coaching search: Bruins AD shares what he is looking for in next HC, timeline for hire
UCLA is searching for a new head coach just over six years after hiring Chip Kelly. The timing is rough, but the Bruins are determined to make the best of the situation.
Following Kelly’s departure to become the Ohio State offensive coordinator, UCLA athletic director Martin Jarmond addressed the media. Jarmond listed his desired qualities in the next head coach of the Bruins.
“A person of integrity,” Jarmond said Friday. “We don’t cut corners here. I want someone that’s passionate and has energy. I want a teacher, a developer. I want someone hungry. I want someone that wants to be a Bruin.”
Post-National Signing Day searches are extremely rare in college football. Coaching hires are mostly made in November and December, with some spillover into January due to the NFL’s Black Monday or post-bowl retirements (e.g., Nick Saban). UCLA needs a coach installed for spring practice and to manage the roster. Bruins players have 30 days to enter the NCAA transfer portal with Kelly’s departure.
Jarmond is hoping to have a full-time head coach hired in the next 96 hours. Considering the unique situation, however, he left open the possibility of taking a different approach for the 2024 season.
UCL AD Martin Jarmond has asked the players for a 96 hour window to try and find a new head coach before they make any decisions (entering transfer portal, etc).
The athletic director said the university is looking for a permanent head coach but will adjust if needed.
— James H. Williams covers UCLA football (@JHWreporter) February 9, 2024
Reported potential candidates for the UCLA job include Minnesota coach PJ Fleck, Nebraska defensive coordinator Tony White, former Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, and former Stanford coach David Shaw.