Entering the 2024 season, 58 Montana Grizzlies have appeared in an NFL game. Griz in the pros dates back to 1920 when tackle Chris Bentz appeared in two games for the Detroit Heralds when the league was branded as the American Professional Football Association. Other notable Montana NFLers include Terry Dillon on the 1963 Minnesota Vikings, Brent Pease on the 1987-1988 Houston Oilers, Tim Hauck on 7 teams from 1990-2002 and Kroy Biermann on the 2008-2015 Atlanta Falcons.

Four Grizzlies will have a viable opportunity to appear in an NFL game this season. Two of those Griz have a chance at making their NFL debuts.

 

Patrick O'Connell


Former Griz linebacker Patrick O'Connell enters his second season with the Seattle Seahawks. The Glacier High School product appeared in one game during his rookie season against the Pittsburgh Steelers. In limited time, O'Connell assisted on one tackle. O'Connell played in all three of the Seahawks' preseason games as well. Look for number 50 this August at Lumen Field.

 

Alex Gubner

 

The reigning Big Sky Conference Defensive Player of the Year Alex Gubner had a few chances at NFL Training Camp. You can't argue he didn't land in a successful place. Gubner is wearing number 96 at Chiefs camp. Plus, our guy made a change to shave the beard down to a goatee.

Looking good, Mr. Gubner.

 

Dylan Cook


Dylan Cook enters his second season of NFL action with the Black and Gold. Like Gubner, Cook will look to make his NFL debut this season as he vies for position on the Steelers depth chart.

 

Samori Toure

 


Of all the former Griz competing for a spot in the NFL, Samori Toure has the most NFL experience. The former Griz and Nebraska Cornhusker (but we claim him as a Griz) appeared in 11 games in each of his first two seasons hauling in one touchdown during his rookie season - a bomb from Aaron Rodgers.


Toure is back with the Pack for Training Camp.

Griz Football 2023 Season Recap

Gallery Credit: Montana Athletics

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