The 49ers have officially found their replacement at defensive backs coach by adding Jerry Gray to their staff.
The 49ers have added a seasoned voice to their defensive staff, bringing in longtime NFL assistant Jerry Gray as defensive backs coach.
The move, first reported by Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports, signals the franchise’s intent to maintain a strong and disciplined secondary heading into the upcoming season.
Gray arrives after several seasons working with the Atlanta Falcons, where he served in a senior defensive coaching role.
His arrival also reunites him with defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, giving the coaching staff an established working relationship that could help streamline communication and defensive planning.
Before transitioning to coaching, Gray built an impressive playing résumé.
Drafted in the first round by the Los Angeles Rams in 1985, he became one of the league’s more reliable cornerbacks during his nine-year career.
He later played for the Houston Oilers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors along the way.
Gray moved into coaching shortly after retirement, beginning at the collegiate level with the SMU Mustangs.
His NFL coaching journey started with the Tennessee Titans, where he quickly gained recognition for his work with defensive backs.
That experience eventually led to defensive coordinator opportunities, first with the Buffalo Bills and later again in Tennessee.
In subsequent years, Gray continued to shape secondaries around the league, including productive stretches with the Minnesota Vikings and the Green Bay Packers.
Players and colleagues frequently credit him with technical expertise, strong communication skills, and a player-friendly coaching style.
The hire fills the vacancy left when Daniel Bullocks departed earlier in the offseason. Replacing that role was a priority, especially with expectations high for a defense that has consistently leaned on physical pass coverage and disciplined safety play.
San Francisco’s coaching landscape has seen some change recently, including past staff shifts involving figures like Robert Saleh and Gus Bradley.
Despite turnover, the organization appears focused on blending continuity with experienced additions to keep the defense performing at a high level.
Gray’s decades of NFL experience, both as a player and coach, bring credibility and stability to the secondary room.
If his track record holds, his presence could help sharpen technique, improve communication on the back end, and ensure the defense remains a cornerstone of the team’s identity moving forward.