Welcome to the 2023 FCS Jersey Countdown. Leading up to Week 0 games on Aug. 26, HERO Sports will name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-0.
Because team rosters are updated at different times across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on last season’s rosters.
The 99-0 countdown central page can be found here.
Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2022 rosters.
35: Braxton Hill, LB (Sr.) — Montana
Hill is Montana’s third-leading returning tackler in 2023. He’s expected to form a solid linebacking duo alongside Levi Janacaro.
Last season, the 6-foot-2, 226-pounder totaled 66 tackles, five tackles for loss, three sacks, and three pass breakups. In the season-opener against Northwestern State, Hill was named the Big Sky Defensive Player of the Week after tallying 10 tackles, 1.5 TFLs, and 0.5 sacks.
An Anaconda, Montana native, Hill should see a breakout senior season for the Grizzlies, who rely on their linebackers to be one of the most disruptive FCS defenses. Last year’s unit allowed 21.3 points per game (No. 18 in the FCS). Montana does lose its top two tacklers and three All-Americans. Hill’s play this fall will be a key part in the Griz returning to the playoffs for an FCS record 27th time.
Montana went 8-5 overall in 2022, beating SEMO 34-24 in the first round before losing 49-26 at North Dakota State. The Griz return their entire starting offensive line and their top two rushers, plus some talent at wide receiver. The defense loses a few multi-time All-Americans, but overall returns six of its top 11 tacklers. Montana ranks No. 16 in HERO Sports’ FCS Preseason Top 25.
