Junior Bergen Signs Four-Year Deal with San Francisco 49ers
MISSOULA — Former University of Montana standout Junior Bergen has officially signed a four-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers, the team announced on their website Friday. Bergen, who excelled as a punt and kick returner and wide receiver, was selected in the seventh round of the recent NFL Draft, making a childhood dream come true for the Billings Senior graduate.
Bergen’s contract is estimated to be worth just over $4.3 million, with the potential to earn $840,000 in his first year. The electrifying player expressed his excitement after receiving a call from the 49ers management while celebrating at a draft party surrounded by family and friends. "Everybody kind of went crazy," Bergen recalled, detailing the tense atmosphere in the room before the call came.
Although primarily a receiver at Montana, Bergen built his reputation as a remarkable special teams returner, setting a record for eight career punt return touchdowns in the FCS. His contributions were pivotal during Montana’s recent playoff run, where he scored three special teams touchdowns en route to the FCS national championship game.
49ers General Manager John Lynch highlighted Bergen’s dynamic abilities, noting the influence of special teams coaches Colt Anderson and Brant Boyer in advocating for his selection. Lynch emphasized the growing need for valuable returners amidst rule changes in the league.
Bergen, now the first Griz player drafted since 2016, is eager to bring his work ethic and team spirit to his new team. “They’re going to get a hard-working kid who loves ball,” he stated, looking to prove himself at the professional level. As Bergen steps into this new chapter, the 49ers are set to gain a talented player ready to make an impact.
— Frank Gogola, 406 MT Sports
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