UCLA athletic director Martin Jarmond made it clear Friday what the university will be looking for over the next couple of days while searching for Chip Kelly’s replacement.
While frustrated UCLA fans might be reveling in the news, significant challenges lie ahead. Jarmond asked the players for a 96-hour window before making any decisions to transfer from the university following Kelly’s departure. That window would end Tuesday.
The university is looking for a person, Jarmond said, who has the qualities of a CEO and will “embrace all aspects of a successful program” under today’s college football landscape, which is spearheaded by roster management, success on the field, recruiting, NIL and maintaining relationships with donors off the field.
Jarmond also mentioned the players’ desire, after meeting with them Friday, to have a coach to replace the 60-year-old Kelly – reportedly off to become the offensive coordinator at Ohio State – who can relate to them not only as a football player but as young men off the field.
Here’s a list of potential candidates for the UCLA football program:
D’Anton Lynn
Lynn, 34, helped turn the Bruins’ defense around in 2023 before leaving to become the defensive coordinator at crosstown rival USC. The Bruins finished as a top-10 defense this past season, allowing 301.5 yards per game. Standout Laiatu Latu and the defensive line also helped produce a rush defense that ranked second in the country after allowing just 80.5 yards per game. UCLA lost two of its top two secondary players, who followed Lynn to USC, but a quick return to Westwood could help keep most of the current roster intact.
Tony White
The UCLA alumnus’ name could be one to keep an eye on. White, 44, spent the past year as Nebraska’s associate head coach and defensive coordinator. He started his college coaching career as a graduate assistant for football operations at UCLA in 2007. Part of his duties included recruiting administration….
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