The nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen moment hit hard for fans of Montana football in late August 2025. On the day NFL teams trimmed their rosters from 90 to 53 players, two standout athletes from Big Sky Conference schools found themselves looking for new opportunities. Tommy Mellott, the former Montana State quarterback turned wide receiver, and Junior Bergen, the speedy receiver and return specialist from Montana, both heard their names called in the wave of waivers. These moves marked tough but common steps in the journey to stick in the NFL.
Tommy Mellott’s Path from Butte to the NFL
Tommy Mellott grew up in Butte, Montana, where he first showed his love for football on local fields. He took that talent to Montana State and became one of the best quarterbacks in FCS history. Fans loved watching him run and pass with heart and smarts.
In his senior year of 2024, Mellott threw for 2,940 yards and 30 touchdowns. He also rushed for 1,217 yards and 16 more scores. Those numbers helped him win the Walter Payton Award as the top offensive player in FCS football. He finished his college career with 33 wins as a starting quarterback—the second most in Montana State history.
Here are some key stats from his time at Montana State:
- Passing: Over 5,800 career yards and 53 touchdowns
- Rushing: More than 3,500 yards and 43 touchdowns
- Awards: Walter Payton Award winner (2024), First-team All-American (2024), Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year (2024)
Mellott’s ability to make plays with his legs and arm made him a special player. Scouts noticed his toughness and leadership. Many said he had the tools to help an NFL team in creative ways.
Junior Bergen’s Exciting Career with the Montana Grizzlies
Junior Bergen came from Billings and lit up the field for the Montana Grizzlies. He played as a wide receiver but also returned kicks and punts like a pro. His speed and hands made him dangerous every time he touched the ball.
In 2023, Bergen had his best season with 59 catches for 791 yards and 5 touchdowns. He added strong return numbers too. Over his college career, he piled up more than 4,400 all-purpose yards. That put him sixth all-time among Grizzlies in that category.
Junior Bergen’s standout college numbers include:
- Receiving: Hundreds of catches and thousands of yards
- Returns: Many big plays on kicks and punts, including touchdowns
- Versatility: He even rushed the ball and threw a touchdown pass in one game
Bergen’s energy and big-play ability caught the eyes of NFL teams. He showed he could help on offense and special teams right away.
How the 2025 NFL Draft Changed Everything
In April 2025, both players heard their names called on draft day. The Las Vegas Raiders picked Tommy Mellott in the sixth round (213th overall). A few picks later, the San Francisco 49ers selected Junior Bergen in the seventh round (252nd overall).
Teams saw potential in both young men. For Mellott, the Raiders liked his athleticism and planned to move him from quarterback to wide receiver. Bergen’s speed and return skills fit what the 49ers needed.
Draft day felt like a dream for both athletes and their families. Mellott told reporters it was “a dream come true.” Bergen shared how proud he felt to represent Montana in the NFL.
Preseason Action and the Big Change for Mellott
Training camp and preseason games gave everyone a first look at the rookies. Mellott worked hard to learn the new position. In preseason games with the Raiders, he caught two passes for one yard and returned two kickoffs for 63 yards. The numbers were small, but he showed flashes of what he could do.
Bergen also got chances to show his skills with the 49ers. He focused on catching the ball cleanly and making smart returns.
These early games are important. They help coaches decide who stays and who goes. Every snap counts when the roster spots are limited.
The nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen Moment on Cut-Down Day
August 26, 2025, became the day of the nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen. The Raiders waived Mellott as they set their 53-man roster. The 49ers did the same with Bergen.
These decisions happen every year. Teams must keep only the best 53 players. Late-round picks and undrafted players often face tough battles for spots. Depth at wide receiver is huge in the NFL, and both young men were still learning the pro game.
According to reports from Montana Sports, both players entered the waiver system after the cuts. Other teams could claim them for their active rosters. If no one claimed them, they could join practice squads.
The news surprised some fans, but experts understood the reality. The NFL is a business, and rosters change fast. Many great players start their careers on practice squads or bounce between teams.
Tommy Mellott’s Short Time with the Saints
After the initial waiver, good news came for Mellott. The New Orleans Saints added him to their practice squad on September 2, 2025. Fans hoped this gave him more time to develop.
He spent almost a month with the Saints. Some people even compared his possible role to Taysom Hill—a player who lines up at many positions. Reports said the team liked his athleticism and wanted to see more.
Sadly, on October 8, 2025, the Saints released Mellott from the practice squad. As shared in this Daily Inter Lake article, the move came after he had shown some promise but faced stiff competition.
This second cut added to the nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen story. It showed how hard it is to stick in the league early on.
What the Cuts Mean for These Montana Stars
The nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen events remind everyone that the NFL path is rarely straight. Both players showed great talent in college. Now they face the next chapter.
Many players who get waived early go on to have solid careers. They use the time on practice squads to learn, get stronger, and wait for their chance. Some even become starters later.
For fans in Montana, these cuts feel personal. The state produces tough, smart players who work hard. Seeing Mellott and Bergen fight for spots makes people proud, even when the news is tough.
Here are a few things these cuts teach young athletes:
- Keep learning – Every practice and meeting helps you grow.
- Stay ready – Your chance can come when you least expect it.
- Work on your body – Strength and speed matter more in the pros.
- Build your mind – Understanding the playbook is key to success.
- Stay positive – Tough days build stronger players.
The Bigger Picture of NFL Roster Cuts in 2025
The 2025 cut-down day had many surprises. As noted in coverage from The Athletic, teams made hard choices across the league. Late-round picks like Mellott and Bergen often feel the pressure first.
Yet, other Montana State players made their teams. Linebackers like Alex Singleton and Troy Andersen, plus defensive players such as Daniel Hardy and Ty Okada, earned roster spots. These successes show the quality coming out of Montana schools.
Junior Bergen’s story also fits a larger pattern. Many return specialists and versatile receivers take time to find their fit. His college production suggests he has the skills to help a team on special teams.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Mellott and Bergen?
As of early 2026, both players continue chasing their NFL dreams. Practice squads and waiver wires keep doors open. Teams often sign players later in the season when injuries happen.
Mellott’s move to wide receiver opened new possibilities. His running ability could make him a gadget player who lines up in different spots. Bergen’s return skills give him a clear way to contribute right away.
Fans can follow their progress through team websites and league updates. Many expect to see both back in the league soon. Their Montana roots and work ethic give them a strong foundation.
For more sports insights, check out laaster.co.uk for fresh stories and analysis.
Why Montana Football Keeps Producing NFL Talent
The nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen story highlights the strong pipeline from Montana to the pros. Schools like Montana State and Montana develop players who understand teamwork and toughness.
Coaches in the Big Sky Conference teach fundamentals that translate well to the NFL. Players learn to compete every day. That mindset helps them handle setbacks like roster cuts.
Parents and young athletes in Montana can feel inspired. Even when cuts happen, the dream stays alive. Hard work and belief lead to opportunities.
Common Questions About the NFL Cuts Process
What happens after a player gets waived? Teams can claim them off waivers. If not, they can join a practice squad or become free agents.
Why do teams cut drafted players? Rosters have limits. Coaches must keep the best mix of veterans and young talent. Position depth plays a big role.
Can players like Mellott and Bergen still make it? Yes! Many current NFL stars started on practice squads or bounced around early in their careers.
How can fans support these players? Keep cheering, share their stories, and remember that every journey has ups and downs.
Final Thoughts on the nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen Story
The nfl cuts tommy mellott junior bergen chapter shows the real side of professional football. Tommy Mellott and Junior Bergen achieved so much in college and earned their draft spots through hard work. The waivers in 2025 tested them, but they have the character to keep pushing.
These moments build resilience. They remind us that success often comes after challenges. Montana fans can feel proud of how these young men represent their state.
What do you think the future holds for Tommy Mellott and Junior Bergen? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from fellow football fans.
References:
- Montana Sports – Tommy Mellott, Junior Bergen among players waived on NFL cut-down day
- Daily Inter Lake – Saints cut Mellott from practice squad
- The Athletic – NFL surprising roster cuts 2025