Big Sky Conference Announces 2026 Preseason Football MVPs and All‑Conference Team

Big Sky Conference preseason Defensive MVP preseason Offensive MVP Caden Dowler Eli Gillman

On July 26, 2026, Big Sky Conference media members released the preseason All‑Conference football selections. Senior safety Caden Dowler of Montana State was named the league’s preseason Defensive Most Valuable Player, while Montana running back Eli Gillman earned the preseason Offensive MVP award.

The announcement also highlighted first‑team honorees such as Northern Arizona tight end Jeter Purdy and safety Shoes Brinkley, completing a roster of 38 players recognized by conference and national media ahead of the 2026 season.

Entities

Big Sky Conference · Caden Dowler · Eli Gillman · Montana State University · Northern Arizona University

Sources

Caden Dowler Tabbed Preseason Big Sky Defensive MVP as Cats Pace Preseason All-Big Sky Voting - Montana State University Athletics [msubobcats.com]

15 days ago

Purdy and Brinkley Voted to 2026 Preseason Football All-Conference Team - Northern Arizona University Athletics [nauathletics.com]

16 days ago