By ERIC TABER
After a whirlwind of recruiting travel, and a U-Haul trip from Nebraska to Missoula, former Montana All-Big Sky Conference and NFL safety Shann Schillinger has made his return to Washington-Grizzly Stadium, this time as a safeties coach under Griz head coach Bob Stitt.
Schillinger, originally from Baker, Mont., was a first team All-Big Sky Conference selection in 2009. He was the third leading tackler for the 14-1 Grizzlies that year with 90 stops, second on the squad with four interceptions, and was voted the recipient of the Tony Barbour Award, presented annually to the player who “best exemplifies Grizzly football.”
“We’re excited, and I know that Montana fans are going to be excited to have Shann back,” said Coach Stitt upon finalizing his staff in January.
“He’s a legend as far as Griz football goes. He’s one of the best people you’ll ever meet, and he’s got great experience as far as playing in the NFL as a safety, and getting to coach on Mike Riley’s staff this past year. I know our Montana players are going to be excited that a guy they grew up watching play for the Griz will be on the staff.”
A four-year letterman and two-year starter, Schillinger never missed a game in his collegiate career, playing in 57 in a row, and starting in 31 straight as a junior and senior. He ended his career ranked 12th (tied with four players) in school history with 10 interceptions and is 20th in career tackles with 257.
The Atlanta Falcons drafted Schillinger in the sixth round (171st pick) of the 2010 NFL Draft, where he played until 2013 before being signed by the Tennessee Titans.
Schillinger sat down to a phone interview with GoGriz.com back in January after it was announced he would be returning to Missoula to join Coach Stitt’s staff.
Hear the complete interview here.