Grizzly football mourns the loss of Jesse Sims

The University of Montana Department of Athletics and the Grizzly football program are mourning the loss of former Grizzly defensive lineman Jesse Sims of Stevensville, who passed away following an ATV accident Saturday morning. He was 24.

Sims, a number 37 legacy jersey holder, was a four-year starter for the Grizzlies who earned All-Big Sky honors at defensive tackle following his senior season in 2019. He was also a two-time recipient of Montana's Larry Miller Award, given annually to the team's top defensive lineman.

"Grizzly Athletics is stunned by the news of Jesse's passing. We all feel a sense of shock and sadness. He was an outstanding representative of his community and this university. Jesse was loved by so many and we join with all of them in mourning this tremendous loss. He will be missed," said director of athletics Kent Haslam.

Sims was named Montana's "Offseason MVP" in 2016 for his work in the weight room, and had recently graduated from UM with a degree in health and human performance. Since graduating, he had begun a career as a strength coach for young student-athletes in Missoula.

A stalwart on the Grizzly defensive line, he made 41 starts and 48 appearances in his career and totaled 164 tackles, eight sacks, 18 tackles-for-loss, and two forced fumbles over four seasons.

In 2017 he was chosen by former Grizzly Tucker Schye as the next to wear Montana's legacy jersey that represents the spirit of Montana by recognizing "Hard work, dedication to the team, and tough play on the gridiron."

"The Grizzly football family is heartbroken by the loss of our brother Jesse. He was a great friend, player, teammate, and representative of the University of Montana and had a bright future ahead of him. Our prayers are with his family and friends at this time," said head coach Bobby Hauck.

Sims was a Corvallis High School graduate. He was a three-sport star for the Blue Devils, lettering in football, basketball, and track.