James L. Mora

"As our lives are ever changing, the one constant is our Foundation's commitment to helping children in need and at risk. Due to our amazing supporters, we are thankful and truly humbled by all that they do to further our mission. We look forward to broadening our reach to help support children as we expand in the upcoming year."  Jim Mora 

On December 10, 2011, former Atlanta Falcons and Seattle Seahawks head coach Jim Mora was named UCLA's 17th head coach in school history.

Coaching for 24 seasons in the NFL, including four years of NFL head coaching experience at the helm of the Atlanta Falcons (2004-2006) and the Seattle Seahawks (2009-2010), Jim brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his new position, with his meticulous preparation, unique communication skills and an intense passion for the game.

Jim's coaching career began in 1984 at the University of Washington where he joined the coaching staff as a defensive assistant under Don James following a three-year playing career as a walk-on linebacker. In 1985, Jim broke into the NFL with the San Diego Chargers, where he spent seven seasons, advancing from the league's first quality control coach to defensive backs coach.

As the son of former Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints head coach James Ernest Mora, one of the most successful head coaches in NFL history with 125 career victories, James Lawrence Mora was the benefactor of his father’s expertise. In 1992, Jim had the opportunity to work alongside his father’s staff in New Orleans, serving as secondary coach for five seasons, and honing his skills as a defensive mastermind.

Jim joined San Francisco from New Orleans, where he spent seven seasons, 1997-2003, including the latter five as defensive coordinator. In his last two seasons with San Francisco, the 49ers defense finished no worse than fourth in the NFC versus the run and in 2003, produced 42 sacks to tie for second in the conference. Jim’s success with 49ers opened the door to his first head coaching position with the Atlanta Falcons. 

In 2004, his rookie season as a head coach, Jim guided the Falcons to an 11-5, becoming just the eighth rookie head coach in NFL history to win 11 games. Atlanta went on to capture the NFC South title and earn an appearance in the NFC Championship game for only the second time in franchise history. The Falcons defense improved from a 32nd league ranking in 2003 to 14th overall the next season, fueled by a league-leading and franchise record 48 quarterback sacks. 

Throughout his coaching career, which has included stops at the University of Washington (1984), San Diego (1985-1991), New Orleans (1992-96), San Francisco (1997-2003), Atlanta (2004-2006) and Seattle (2007-2010), Jim has had the opportunity to learn and study the game from some of the most well-respected coaches including: Bill Walsh, Don James, Don Coryell, Steve Mariucci, Bobby Beathard, Jim Finks, Ernie Zampese, and his father, Jim. 

By balancing a style that is energetic, approachable and open-minded with being a passionate, hard-nosed, demanding competitor, Jim has found a formula for winning both on and off the field.

When not grinding through playbooks, Jim spends as much time as possible to be with his family and give back to the community.  Jim and Shannon, his college sweetheart and wife since 1992, have four children: daughter Lillia, and sons, Cole, Ryder and Trey. In Shannon, Jim matter-of-factly acknowledges the important role that his wife (and partner of over 30 years) plays in his life.  Together in October of 2005, Jim and Shannon established the Jim Mora Count On Me Family Foundation, to help make a difference in Georgia, and in 2009, the Foundation launched to serve children in Washington.  They are excited to expand the Foundation’s outreach to California.

Jim Mora Count On Me Foundation is a grant making public charity, which holds annual fundraisers to support the grant process.  The Foundation strives to support and partner with children’s charities and organizations whose missions align with the Foundation’s to help children strive to reach their potential, lead healthy and happy lives, and discover their voice.

Jim has served on the Board of Advisors at Eagle Ranch (Chestnut Mountain, Georgia), and still is involved with Special Olympics. 
In addition to serving as President of the Count On Me Family Foundation, Jim currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue, Crossfire Premier Soccer Club and Agile/Hudl Sports Technology.

Jim also serves on the Coaches Advisory Board for the Positive Coaches Alliance, the Tackling Task Force Advisory Board for USA Football and is the Chairman of the Sports Advisory Board for X2 Impact, whose primary focus has been discussion study and research.

Career History