In an unprecedented turn, Montana linebacker Solomon Tuliaupupu has been granted a ninth year of eligibility by the NCAA. He’ll return for the 2026 season.
This decision caps a tumultuous collegiate career filled with injuries and setbacks. The University of Montana announced the news on social media, confirming Tuliaupupu’s return as well as that of sixth-year offensive lineman Dylan Jemtegaard.
Tuliaupupu’s journey began at USC back in 2018. It’s been nothing short of wild—full of perseverance, some heartbreak, and a lot of determination.
Let’s dig into his career and what this extended eligibility could mean for both him and the Montana football program.
Solomon Tuliaupupu’s Early Career at USC
Solomon Tuliaupupu started his collegiate football career at USC in 2018. He was a promising prospect, but his journey got rocky right away thanks to a string of injuries.
Injury Woes
During his time at USC, Tuliaupupu hit some major roadblocks:
- 2018: He missed the entire season after foot surgery.
- 2020: Another surgery, this time on his knee, kept him sidelined all year.
These injuries kept him off the field for much of his college career. Still, he never seemed to lose his drive for the game.
Breakthrough and Transfer to Montana
After years of setbacks, Tuliaupupu finally saw the field as a redshirt senior in 2022. He played in all 14 games for the Trojans, picking up 10 tackles (three for a loss) and one quarterback hurry.
But in 2024, illness cut his time short again—he only managed to play in seven games that season.
Move to Montana
In 2025, Tuliaupupu transferred to Montana. He was looking for a fresh start and, honestly, just a chance to play a full season.
His transfer kicked off a new chapter, one that held a lot of hope.
Montana Debut and Impact
In his first season at Montana, Tuliaupupu played under coach Bobby Hauck. Despite being away from consistent play for so long, he made an immediate impact.
Season Highlights
During his debut season at Montana:
- He played in every game, making his presence felt on defense.
- His performance showed just how determined he was to get back on the field.
The season wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. Tuliaupupu missed the entire 2023 season due to another injury.
Yet, he stuck with it. His commitment to the team never really wavered.
New Beginnings with Coach Bobby Kennedy
The 2026 season brings a new opportunity for Tuliaupupu. He’ll be playing under head coach Bobby Kennedy, who’s taking over for Bobby Hauck.
Hauck, by the way, is now the defensive coordinator at Illinois after a short-lived retirement.
What to Expect
With a new coach and a healthy Tuliaupupu, there’s genuine optimism in the air:
- Leadership: Tuliaupupu’s seen it all. That kind of experience is tough to find.
- Performance: If he can stay healthy—fingers crossed—he could be a real difference-maker for Montana’s defense.
The Significance of Ninth-Year Eligibility
The NCAA’s decision to grant Tuliaupupu a ninth year is almost unheard of. It really speaks to the unique challenges he’s faced along the way.
Implications
This extension means a few things:
- Personal Milestone: Tuliaupupu gets a rare shot to finish his career on his own terms.
- Team Dynamics: His return brings extra depth and leadership to the Montana roster.
- NCAA Precedent: Who knows—maybe this sets the stage for future cases involving athletes with extraordinary circumstances.
Looking Ahead
Solomon Tuliaupupu is gearing up for his ninth year of college football. People in the sports world are definitely paying attention.
His journey? It’s honestly a wild ride—full of grit, setbacks, and a kind of stubborn love for the game that not everyone has. For Montana, having him on the roster isn’t just about defense; it’s a real shot in the arm for the whole team and fans, too.
If you want a deeper dive into Tuliaupupu’s story or the NCAA’s decision, check out the full article on Fox Sports.
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