Another college football coach is NFL-bound! Boston College cornerbacks coach Ray Brown is reportedly set to take his first shot in the pro league. He’s been grinding at the college level for 14 seasons, making stops at nine different programs — Utah State, Abilene Christian, and Troy, just to name a few. His last stint was at BC where he spent one season. If he makes the jump, what’s he asking away from? Will the Eagles cash in on his departure? 

According to a report by CBS Sports and 247Sports shared by Matt Zenitz on Instagram on February 15, “The San Francisco 49ers are set to hire Boston College’s Ray Brown as cornerbacks coach. Helped BC post its first seven win regular season since 2018 this past season. Previously worked at Washington State, where he coached Panthers 2024 draft pick Chau Smith-Wade.” Brown is certainly reaping the sweet fruits of his toil with the Eagles. And this looks like a solid step up in his coaching career. Curious about the contract details? Let’s take a look. 

USA Today’s report on Ray Brown’s salary does not feature details about his contract with Boston College. While we’re not immediately able to get the information on his buyout with the Eagles, the report shows that he earned $575,000 in his two seasons with Washington State. About this time last year, Brown left Wazzu for Boston College after two years where he coached and developed CB Chau Smith-Wade who is now with the Carolina Panthers. This proves his ability to mold NFL-calibre talent. 

Putting the buyout aside, this potential move would be a blow for Boston College whom Ray Brown helped in its resurgence. Under his leadership, he not only broke a 2018 record with a 7-6 record but also led the Eagles to tie the first place in the ACC by locking down 17 interceptions, a testament to his impact on the defensive backfield. It’s not just his on-field presence alone but he also reportedly played a key role in recruiting some of his defensive backs. And now, he’s bringing his talent to Kyle Shanahan’s staff, stepping onto the NFL stage with one of the premier pro leagues. The question is, how would he fit into the 49ers system?

How Ray Brown can help San Francisco 49ers

With Robert Saleh back as their DC, the San Francisco 49ers are looking to re-establish their defensive dominance, and bringing in Ray Brown could be a crucial move. Brown’s record of molding young talent, particularly in the secondary, makes him an ideal addition to a team that saw their overall efficiency drop from No. 10 to 26 this past season. Despite the fall, the pass defense remained strong, thanks to standout performances from 49ers weapons like Deommodore Lenoir and rookie Renardo Green. 

Lenior, fresh off a hefty contract extension, played like how a Pro Bowler should and Green’s arrival stabilized the unit. With star CB Charvarius Ward facing uncertainty after a difficult personal year and Isaac Yiadom hitting free agency, the 49ers have major gaps to fill. With only Darrell Luter Jr. under contract among veteran CBs, the team needs reinforcements to maintain its competitive edge. 

That’s where Ray Brown comes in. His expertise in molding young talents could help maximize Lenior and Green’s potential while fortifying depth in a thin CB room.