Montana Wraps Up Spring Drills, Eyes Offseason Growth Under New Coach

Griz football team embraces changes, looks to build on progress made during spring practices

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:54pm

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The Montana Grizzlies football team has wrapped up its spring drills under new head coach Bobby Kennedy, with players expressing optimism about the direction of the program despite the coaching change. The team added 24 transfer players in the offseason and is focused on continued growth and development heading into the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The transition to a new coaching staff is a critical time for any college football program, as players must adapt to new schemes, philosophies, and expectations. How the Grizzlies navigate this offseason will set the tone for their performance in the upcoming season, which is highly anticipated after a number of key returners and new additions to the roster.

The details

Under Kennedy's leadership, the Grizzlies wrapped up spring practices with a focus on building team unity and acclimating the 24 new transfer players to the program. Players expressed confidence in the new coaching staff, with safety Tanner Huff saying "We love BK. We love the whole entire staff and we're here." Wide receiver Ian Finch noted that while there was some initial uncertainty, the team felt more united as spring ball progressed. Kennedy emphasized that there is still significant growth needed, but was pleased with the team's attitude and effort throughout the spring sessions.

  • The Grizzlies concluded their spring football practices in April 2026.
  • The team added 24 transfer players in February 2026 ahead of the start of spring drills.
  • The 2026 season for Montana is scheduled to kick off on August 29, 2026 against Southern Utah.

The players

Bobby Kennedy

The new head coach of the Montana Grizzlies football team, taking over the program in 2026.

Tanner Huff

A safety on the Montana Grizzlies football team who expressed confidence in the new coaching staff.

Ian Finch

A wide receiver on the Montana Grizzlies football team who discussed the team's transition to the new coaching staff.

Lucas Freitas

An offensive lineman on the Montana Grizzlies football team who is excited about the team's progress and future outlook.

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What they’re saying

“We love BK. We love the whole entire staff and we're here.”

— Tanner Huff, Safety

“Those first two weeks of the coaching change, there's a little bit of uncertainty there. But as spring ball progressed, I think we felt more united as a team and there wasn't as much confusion around what was happening within the program. And I think we're at a really good spot right now.”

— Ian Finch, Wide Receiver

“I can't remember a day that I said, God, we're just slogging around. I thought the guys came with a great attitude every day. They were moving fast. I thought we did a really good job and now we just have to put it all together.”

— Bobby Kennedy, Head Coach

What’s next

The Grizzlies will continue their offseason program, including organized team activities (OTAs) and weight room training, as they prepare for the start of the 2026 season on August 29 against Southern Utah.

The takeaway

The Montana Grizzlies have embraced the changes brought on by a new coaching staff, with players expressing optimism about the direction of the program. The team's ability to build on the progress made during spring practices and continue developing chemistry will be crucial as they look to compete at a high level in the upcoming season.