Report: UCLA hiring Akron OC Billy Fessler as QB coach

The UCLA Bruins are making moves on their coaching staff, particularly on the offensive side of the football.

According to Matt Zenitz of 247 Sports, “UCLA is set to hire Akron offensive coordinator Billy Fessler as QB coach.”

Additionally, Zenitz noted that Fessler is a former Penn State quarterback, who has worked with the Zips for the last two seasons after spending time with the Ohio State Buckeyes as a graduate assistant. He pointed out that John Brice of FootballScoop.com was first with the news, as well.

It’s a sizable move for Chip Kelly and the Bruins. UCLA is preparing for a huge move to the Big Ten, and their offense, especially their quarterback position, will need to be more consistent. That’ll be Fessler’s wheelhouse.

Time will tell how it works out, but the Bruins aren’t simply standing pat. We’ll see how UCLA adjusts to their new conference with some interesting coaching staff additions in 2024.

Chip Kelly, UCLA promote former Navy head coach Ken Niumatalolo to TEs coach

Moreover, the news comes after UCLA made another major addition to their staff, announcing that former Navy head coach Ken Niumatalolo was coming aboard full time as the tight ends coach. Niumatalolo had coached that position during bowl prep for the Bruins.

He had joined the UCLA staff after being let go by Navy following a disappointing 2022 season. His first season at UCLA was spent working under the title of “director of leadership.”

Niumatalolo went 109-83 in 15 seasons at Navy leading the football program, going 6-4 in 10 bowl appearances. His 109 wins are a program record for the Midshipmen.

“Ken is a tremendous example for our program off the field through his character and experiences at the Naval Academy,” Kelly said in a release announcing the promotion. “We are thrilled with the opportunity to add his knowledge and leadership to our tight ends room and coaching staff.”

Niumatalolo is one of several offseason staff moves that Kelly and Co. are getting done as the Bruins retool for 2024 and beyond in the Big Ten.