Montana LB Solomon Tuliaupupu Secures 9th Year Eligibility
In a heartening development for college football fans, Montana Grizzlies linebacker Solomon Tuliaupupu has been granted a ninth year of eligibility by the NCAA. This rare extension allows the resilient defender to continue his career with the team in the 2026 season, providing a significant lift to Montana's defensive lineup as they transition under new head coach Bobby Kennedy.
A Journey Marked by Adversity and Determination
Solomon Tuliaupupu's path to this milestone has been anything but straightforward. The linebacker began his collegiate journey at the University of Southern California (USC) in 2018, arriving with high expectations as a promising talent from the recruiting ranks. However, his time with the Trojans was plagued by a series of debilitating injuries that tested his resolve.
In his freshman year, Tuliaupupu underwent surgery for a foot injury, sidelining him for the entire 2018 season. He redshirted and worked tirelessly in rehabilitation, only to face another setback in 2020 with a knee injury requiring surgery. These medical hurdles limited his on-field contributions during his USC tenure, turning what could have been a star-studded career into a battle for survival in the sport he loves.
Despite the challenges, Tuliaupupu showed flashes of his potential. As a redshirt senior in 2022, he finally saw meaningful action, appearing in all 14 games for USC and recording 10 tackles, including three for loss, along with one quarterback hurry. This performance was a testament to his skills and perseverance, but misfortune struck again in 2023 when another injury forced him to miss the entire season.
His 2024 campaign at USC was equally truncated; after playing in seven games, an illness cut his year short. Seeking a fresh start and a chance to contribute more fully, Tuliaupupu transferred to Montana ahead of the 2025 season. There, in his first year with the Grizzlies—and his eighth overall—he played his second full season, bringing veteran experience to a program known for its gritty FCS play in the Big Sky Conference.
The NCAA's Decision: A Ninth-Year Lifeline
The NCAA's approval of Tuliaupupu's ninth year comes as a medical hardship waiver, recognizing the time lost to injuries and illness throughout his career. Under current NCAA rules, athletes can petition for an extra year if they've participated in fewer than 30% of a team's scheduled contests due to documented medical issues. Tuliaupupu's case fits this criterion perfectly, with multiple seasons effectively wiped out by surgeries and recoveries.
Montana announced the news on social media alongside the return of sixth-year offensive lineman Dylan Jemtegaard, signaling a focus on continuity and experience for the upcoming season. This dual announcement underscores the Grizzlies' strategy to blend seasoned players with emerging talent as they aim to compete in the competitive Big Sky landscape.
Impact on the Montana Grizzlies
Tuliaupupu's return couldn't come at a better time for Montana. The Grizzlies are undergoing a coaching change, with Bobby Kennedy stepping in as head coach after Bobby Hauck's departure to become defensive coordinator at Illinois following a brief retirement. Kennedy inherits a team that has been a consistent contender in the FCS, including notable rivalry games like the annual Brawl of the Wild against Montana State.
As a linebacker, Tuliaupupu brings size, speed, and instincts to the defense. His USC background exposes him to high-level Pac-12 competition, which translates well to Montana's aggressive defensive schemes. In 2025, he contributed to a Grizzlies squad that showed promise, and his extended eligibility could be pivotal in leadership roles, mentoring younger players and anchoring the front seven.
Analysts see this as a boost for Montana's postseason aspirations. The Grizzlies have a history of deep playoff runs in the FCS, and with Tuliaupupu's experience, they could push for another championship contention in 2026. His story also highlights the evolving nature of NCAA eligibility rules, which have become more flexible in recent years to account for the physical toll of the sport.
Broader Implications for College Football
Tuliaupupu's case is part of a larger trend in college football where extended eligibility is becoming more common, thanks to the COVID-19 blanket waiver and subsequent medical hardship provisions. Players like him embody the grit required in a sport that demands peak physical condition. As the NCAA navigates transfer portals, NIL deals, and roster management, stories like Tuliaupupu's remind us of the human element behind the statistics.
Looking ahead, Tuliaupupu will have opportunities to showcase his skills in high-stakes games, potentially drawing NFL scouts' attention if he stays healthy. His ninth year isn't just an extension—it's a second chance to leave a lasting legacy at Montana.
What's Next for Tuliaupupu and the Grizzlies?
As spring practices approach, all eyes will be on how Tuliaupupu integrates into Kennedy's system. The new coach, known for his defensive acumen from previous stops, will likely lean on veterans like Tuliaupupu to set the tone. Fans can expect an exciting 2026 season, with the linebacker poised to make up for lost time.
For those following FCS football, Tuliaupupu's journey is a must-watch narrative of resilience. In an era where college athletics is rapidly changing, his determination stands out as a beacon of what's possible when passion meets opportunity.
This development not only strengthens Montana's roster but also inspires athletes everywhere facing similar obstacles. Stay tuned to Everythiiing.com for updates on the Grizzlies and the ever-evolving world of college football.
