Football

Montana State Adds Two Transfer Players Ahead of 2026 Season

Senior tight end Bruin Fleischmann and cornerback Alec Wills join the Bobcats as the program reshapes its roster.

Montana State University's football program is set to welcome two experienced transfers as the 2026 season approaches.

Senior tight end Bruin Fleischmann, a recent standout at Air Force, has agreed to join the Bobcats after earning All‑Mountain West Conference Honorable Mention honors in 2025.

Fleischmann, the younger brother of Cats FCS All‑American offensive lineman Titan Fleischmann, brings a blend of size and pass‑catching ability to a tight end room that already features several returning players.

Alongside him, senior cornerback Alec Wills, who spent the last four seasons at Penn, will add depth to the secondary. Wills appeared in 21 games for the Quakers, recording 15 tackles and an interception in 2025, and previously posted 30 tackles, one pick and six pass breakups in 2024.

The Bobcats also announced a positional shift for sophomore Ryan Bowles, who will move from linebacker to defensive end for the upcoming campaign, a change that could reshape the front seven.

At the same time, defensive back Hayden Gunlock, receiver Javonte King, quarterback River Warren and offensive lineman Vaughn Wirkus have decided to leave the program, opening opportunities for younger talent.

Roster Evolution Ahead of 2026

Coaching staff say the influx of veteran transfers will accelerate the team's development, providing immediate experience while the program continues to recruit high‑school prospects. The moves reflect a strategic push to compete in the Big Sky Conference and beyond.

Fans can expect a more seasoned lineup when the Bobcats open the season, with both Fleischmann and Wills expected to be key contributors on offense and defense respectively.

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