Full Breakdown
Montana Grizzlies Enter Spring Camp with High Expectations
4/7/2026, 1:12:00 PM
Overview of the 2026 Season
As the Montana Grizzlies prepare for the 2026 spring football camp, the team is entering a new era under head coach Bobby Kennedy. Following a semifinal appearance last season, where they were eliminated by Montana State, the Grizzlies are aiming for a championship run. Key positional battles and the emergence of new talent will be critical as they look to build on last year's success.
Key Positional Battles
Cornerback and Secondary
The Grizzlies face significant challenges in the secondary, particularly at cornerback, where they lost key contributors Kyon Loud and Kenzel Lawler. With no returning players who logged over 200 snaps in 2025, the team will rely on transfers and younger players to fill these gaps. Brady Beaner, who has experience at safety, may transition to cornerback, while redshirt freshmen DeAnte Gentry and Sage Salopek are potential candidates for starting roles. Additionally, Arizona State transfer Chris Johnson and North Texas transfer Gabe Stroud are expected to compete for significant playing time.
Wide Receiver
The wide receiver corps also presents uncertainties. Brooks Davis returns as a top target, but the slot position vacated by All-American Michael Wortham is up for grabs. Young talents like Jordan Dever, Ian Finch, and Lekeldrick Bridges are poised to step up, with Dever having played nearly 300 snaps last season.
Potential Breakout Players
Several players are positioned to make significant impacts in 2026. Running back Hashim Jones, who had a productive but limited role last season, is expected to compete for the No. 2 running back spot against Washington State transfer Dylan Paine. Wide receiver Korbin Hendrix, who recorded 12 catches for 174 yards and three touchdowns last season, is anticipated to take on a larger role following the graduation of Blake Bohannon.
Key Transfers and Returning Stars
The Grizzlies have bolstered their roster through strategic transfers. Braeden Orlandi, an NAIA All-American safety, joins the team after a standout season, while Tyler King, a Division II All-American, is expected to enhance the defensive line. Linebacker Naiteitei Mose, with over 30 games of experience, adds depth to an already strong unit.
Returning quarterback Keali'i Ah Yat is a focal point for the Grizzlies, having thrown for a career-high 4,070 yards and 33 touchdowns last season. Running back Eli Gillman, who ranks fourth all-time in rushing yards for Montana, is on track to break multiple records this season, needing just 393 yards to surpass the all-time rushing record.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Bobby Kennedy expressed optimism about the upcoming season, highlighting the potential of the younger players and the importance of the transfer additions. He noted, "We have a lot of talent on this roster, and I believe we can compete at a high level."
Criticism & Opposition
While the Grizzlies are optimistic, some analysts question their ability to replace key defensive players and maintain the momentum from last season. Critics point to the lack of experience in the secondary as a potential vulnerability that could impact their performance.
What's Next
As spring camp unfolds, the Grizzlies will focus on solidifying their roster and addressing positional uncertainties. The outcomes of these battles will be crucial as they prepare for the 2026 season, with aspirations of returning to the semifinals and beyond.
