Mizzou adds Montana running back Va’aimalae Fonoti through portal

Missouri adds Va’aimalae Fonoti from Montana to its running back room, a move that supplies immediate depth and proven production from the FCS level. A Hawaii native, Fonoti arrives after a 2025 season that included 184 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns on 48 carries while helping Montana reach the FCS Playoff semifinals. He also caught 10 passes for 97 yards, showing some versatility as a receiver out of the backfield.

Fonoti first drew attention as a true freshman in the Big Sky, earning Big Sky Freshman of the Week recognition in 2024. That early notice translated into reliable work for Montana down the stretch of his tenure, and it is that blend of game experience and postseason reps that Missouri is adding to its roster. Multiple Power 5 options were on the table, but Fonoti chose Missouri over schools including Hawaii and Utah, signaling a belief that he can carve a role in a crowded Mizzou backfield.

Internally, this fits the profile of depth insurance more than an immediate feature back. On limited touches in 2025 he showed an ability to handle a workload and to contribute in the passing game, traits that translate to situational roles at the SEC level. With the Tigers continuing to reload via the portal, Fonoti becomes the program’s 20th portal addition, joining a wave of newcomers who will compete for snaps in spring practice and fall camp.

For Missouri fans tracking the running back battle, Fonoti’s arrival adds another body with playoff seasoning and short-yardage experience. Expect him to compete in the second and third layers of the rotation while also being evaluated for special teams and third-down passing packages. His Hawaii background and Big Sky pedigree also bring a different style of run game experience to the Tigers’ room.

Community relevance is straightforward: additions like Fonoti matter because they expand depth charts, create competition in camp, and can be the difference in late-season attrition or injury. Missouri’s staff is betting that an FCS player who performed in the playoffs can be a steady hand in rotation minutes. Watch spring practice and the early position battles to see how quickly Fonoti earns reps and where he fits in Mizzou’s plans for 2026.