Montana’s Own Junior Bergen is NFL Bound

If you’re a proud Montanan, you already know how much heart, grit, and pride our athletes bring to the table. Today, we’ve got one more reason to cheer: Junior Bergen, our very own Montana Grizzlies standout, is officially heading to the NFL!

On Saturday, Bergen’s dream became reality when he was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the seventh round, 251st overall.

A Billings Kid Living Out the Dream

Bergen’s football journey is about as Montana as it gets. He starred at Billings Senior High School before becoming a fan favorite at the University of Montana. Known for his electric speed, gritty work ethic, and ability to turn any play into a highlight, Junior wasn’t just a star, he was an inspiration.

Bergen is the first player from Billings to be drafted since West High alum Dylan Donahue, who was picked by the New York Jets in the fifth round back in 2017 after playing at Division II West Georgia.

The Playmaker That Couldn’t Be Ignored

Over the past few seasons, Bergen became a name nobody could overlook. His speed, agility, and ability to make game-changing plays turned him into one of the most exciting players to watch in the Big Sky Conference. Whether it was returning punts for touchdowns or hauling in crucial catches, Junior had a way of making magic happen when it mattered most.

A Moment for All of Montana to Celebrate

Even as he heads west to California, Bergen’s Montana roots run deep. Bergen’s leadership, sportsmanship, and never-give-up attitude left a mark on teammates, coaches, and fans alike. He’s leaving behind some big shoes to fill in Missoula, but he’s also showing every young athlete across Montana that greatness is all about how hard you’re willing to work.

Get our free mobile app

What’s Next for Junior in San Francisco?

The San Francisco 49ers are no strangers to championship culture, and Junior is going to fit right in. His versatility as a return specialist and receiver gives him a real shot to make an impact right away. Plus, his work ethic and determination, classic Montana traits, will serve him well as he fights to earn a spot on the roster.