Oregon State has hired Trent Bray as its next head coach.

Bray, who previously served as the program’s defensive coordinator, will replace Jonathan Smith in the head role. Oregon State athletic director Scott Barnes made that announcement on Tuesday evening.

“I’m excited to be able to announce Trent as our next head coach,” Barnes said in a release. “After interviewing several qualified candidates, we realized our top choice, Trent, has already been a mainstay at the Valley Football Center and Reser Stadium. He’s been a part of Beaver Nation for a long time and love for this place is real. The connection and trust he has built with our student athletes is unmatched. His energy and determination as head coach will be a catalyst for continued program success.”

Bray has deep ties to Oregon State. In addition to serving on Smith’s staff since 2018, Bray played for the Beavers from 2002-05. He captained Oregon State in 2005 and was a two-time all-Pac-10 honoree during his time as a linebacker for the Beavers.

Bray, 41, thanked Barnes for the opportunity to be the head coach at his alma mater.

“I’d like to thank Scott Barnes and President Jayathi Murthy for this opportunity,” Bray said in a release. “I’ve been a part of Oregon State for a long time, as a coach and a student-athlete, and know how special Beaver Nation is. I’m excited to lead an outstanding group of men our fans can be proud of.”

Bray’s hiring means Oregon State will be in position to have a coaching staff in place ahead of the transfer portal window opening on Monday, Dec. 4.