Montana's Michael Wortham Impresses at East-West Shrine Bowl

Grizzly wide receiver and return specialist stands out against top FBS talent

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:47pm

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Michael Wortham, a standout wide receiver and return specialist for the Montana Grizzlies, had a strong showing at the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, one of the top college all-star games and NFL scouting events. Wortham started for the East team as a receiver and return specialist, showcasing his skills against top FBS talent. Despite being from a smaller FCS program, Wortham more than held his own and was recognized as one of the top overall performers of the week.

Why it matters

The East-West Shrine Bowl is a critical event for NFL prospects, as it allows them to showcase their abilities in front of pro scouts and coaches. Wortham's strong performance, despite coming from an FCS school, demonstrates his potential to play at the next level and could boost his draft stock heading into Montana's Pro Day and the 2023 NFL Draft.

The details

Wortham had three kickoff returns for 54 yards and two punt returns for 18 yards, including a long kickoff return of 25 yards. As a receiver, he started and played the majority of the reps but was only targeted once and did not record a catch. However, he was named to the East's All-Practice team and was the highest-graded FCS player at the event, according to PFSN College's impact metrics.

  • The East-West Shrine Bowl took place on Tuesday, January 28, 2026 in Frisco, Texas.
  • Wortham will continue training in Nashville, Tennessee and is set to participate in Montana's Pro Day in early April 2026.

The players

Michael Wortham

A standout wide receiver and return specialist for the Montana Grizzlies, Wortham was a consensus All-American and Walter Payton Award candidate in 2025 after setting several school records.

Mark Gronowski

The former South Dakota State quarterback, who faced Montana in the 2023 national championship game before transferring to Iowa, was named the offensive MVP of the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl.

Cole Wisniewski

The safety from Texas Tech, another former Grizzly opponent in 2023 for North Dakota State, also put in a standout performance for the East team in the Shrine Bowl.

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What they’re saying

“I knew I had to earn respect coming from a smaller school because there were a lot of SEC-type guys, but it was an awesome experience. They were long days, it felt like fall camp, but I was able to learn so much from these guys. There were so many people connected with the NFL that gave me advice, it was really valuable. Just going through the whole process was amazing.”

— Michael Wortham

“I just went out there every day and believed in myself. There were a lot of big names there, but I'm trying to become a big name as well. So, no matter who was in front of me I was just trying to dominate, and I think I did pretty good. It was great competition, and iron sharpens iron. So, I'm just so glad to have the opportunity.”

— Michael Wortham

What’s next

Wortham will continue training in Nashville, Tennessee in preparation for Montana's Pro Day, set for early April 2026.

The takeaway

Michael Wortham's standout performance at the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl, despite coming from an FCS program, demonstrates his potential to play at the next level and could significantly boost his NFL draft stock heading into the 2023 draft process.