Jack Ryan Commits to Montana Grizzlies Days After Official Offer from Billings West Standout

Less than a week after receiving his first Division I offer from the University of Montana, Billings West High School linebacker Jack Ryan has announced his commitment to play for the Grizzlies beginning in the fall of 2027.

Ryan, a standout defender from Billings, Montana, verbally committed to the Montana football program on Monday, April 20, 2026, following his initial offer on April 15. The decision came after discussions with Montana’s defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, Eric Sanders, who outlined a specific role for Ryan based on his instincts and versatility.

“I talked to Coach Sanders, and he told me he’d keep it straightforward. He said he loved my ability to quickly read the offense and make that split-second decision to go get the ball. He also said they see me playing at a boundary safety type position,” Ryan said in a statement released upon his commitment.

The commitment holds personal significance for Ryan, whose family has deep ties to the University of Montana. Both of his uncles, Kyle and Casey Ryan, previously played for the Grizzlies and currently reside in Missoula.

“Missoula is a second home for me. Both of my uncles, Kyle and Casey Ryan, played for the Griz and currently live there,” Ryan said, emphasizing the familial connection that influenced his decision.

Ryan also cited his longstanding support for the program and optimism about the direction of the coaching staff under head coach Bobby Kennedy as contributing factors.

“Plus, I’ve always been a Griz fan, and I feel like this coaching change could greatly benefit this program. Montana is already in the lead in in-state recruiting, and Coach Kennedy is doing a great job. Between his and Coach Sanders’ coaching resumes, they are very experienced and well respected,” he added.

The Grizzlies’ coaching staff has been actively building momentum in the 2027 recruiting cycle, with Ryan marking the program’s first commitment from Billings West High School in the class. His decision reflects a broader trend of in-state talent choosing to remain in Montana for collegiate football.

Ryan concluded his announcement by expressing gratitude to his high school coaches and the Montana staff for the opportunity.

“I am extremely blessed and excited to announce my commitment to the University of Montana!! Thank you to both my West High coaches for allowing me to reach this point and to the staff at UM for giving me this opportunity!!” he wrote in a social media post accompanying the announcement.