Former WSU, Idaho assistant coach Craig Bray dies at 74

Key Takeaways:

• Craig Bray was 74 at the time of his passing.
• He served as a defensive coach at Washington State and the University of Idaho in the ’80s and ’90s.
• He was the father of Washington State Defensive Coordinator Trent Bray.
• Bray made his name coaching at Oregon State.
• His career spanned decades of collegiate football in the Northwest.

Bray’s Coaching Roots

Craig Bray began his collegiate coaching journey with multiple defensive positions at Washington State University (WSU) and the University of Idaho. During the 1980s and 1990s, these roles defined his early influence on college football in the Northwest, shaping strategies and player development that resonated across local programs.

Moving Up in the Northwest

After proving his defensive coaching expertise at WSU and Idaho, Bray eventually made his name at Oregon State. Though details of his specific achievements there are not fully disclosed in this report, his growing reputation in the region stands as a testament to his career dedication and leadership on the field.

A Football Family

Bray was the father of Washington State Defensive Coordinator Trent Bray, underscoring how his legacy continued within collegiate football circles. The influence he had on his own son—now shaping Washington State’s defense—mirrors the impact he had on countless players throughout his tenure.

Reflecting on His Impact

Throughout his time on the sidelines, Bray’s defensive acumen and mentorship guided new generations of athletes. His death at age 74 closes the chapter on a storied career. In the tight-knit world of Northwest college football, he will be remembered for his significant contributions to WSU, Idaho, and Oregon State, as well as his enduring influence on colleagues, players, and family members alike.