Former Griz gets a second chance

Folks in Missoula can breathe easy as the University of Montana is reporting former cornerback Jimmy Wilson was granted one more year of athletic eligibility. What makes this newsworthy is Wilson was formerly a guest of the California state pen for murder charges in conjunction with the June 2007 shooting death of his aunt’s boyfriend, Kevin Smoot. To this day, Wilson asserts he acted in self-defense. The original criminal case ended with a hung jury. Wilson served two years until he was acquitted of all charges last July. Upon news of his release, the cornerback was anxious to get back on the field so he immediately petitioned the NCAA to grant him one more year of eligibility (Wilson was a three year starter from 2004-06). The 23 year old plans on getting back into playing shape this summer and rejoining his team for one more season come 2010. Coach Robin Pflugrad says he looks forward to Wilson’s return and the team looks to welcome him with open arms.