Lex Hilliard: From Kalispell High School Star to Montana Football Hall of Fame Inductee
BILLINGS — In the picturesque terrains of Kalispell, Lex Hilliard’s journey from local football phenom to NFL player is one marked by determination and prowess. While playing for Flathead High School, Hilliard made headlines by racking up nearly 1,400 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns in his sophomore year, culminating his high school career with over 4,400 all-purpose yards and 44 touchdowns—records that remain unbroken.
Hilliard’s domination continued at the University of Montana, where he quickly made a name for himself. He accumulated nearly 600 rushing yards in his freshman year and nearly 1,000 yards in his second, earning first-team All-Big Sky honors and becoming a finalist for the prestigious Walter Payton Award. His remarkable performance places him among the most notable running backs in Montana history, with his name appearing nearly 40 times in the university’s record books.
His toughness was equally legendary. Former teammate Chase Reynolds recalled a game where Hilliard, with a pin sticking out of his fractured thumb, was determined to return to the field, illustrating his indomitable spirit.
In 2008, Hilliard was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the sixth round. His NFL stint included appearances in all 16 games during his rookie season, where he and former Griz kicker Dan Carpenter accounted for every score in a close game against Houston. Hilliard also played for the New England Patriots and New York Jets, completing his career with 62 games played and four touchdowns.
Now, Hilliard’s legacy is celebrated as he prepares for his induction into the Montana Football Hall of Fame on June 28 at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center. Tickets are available for $100 per person or $800 for a table of eight at www.mtfootballhof.com.
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