Solomon Tuliaupupu age is drawing national attention as the Montana Grizzlies linebacker prepares to return for a historic ninth season of college football in 2026. At 25 years old and set to turn 26 in March 2026, Tuliaupupu’s journey stands out in modern NCAA history. His path reflects resilience, recovery from major injuries, academic dedication, and a rare eligibility decision that extends his college career further than almost any player before him.
Here is everything currently confirmed about his age, career timeline, eligibility status, and what lies ahead.
Early Life and High School Dominance
Solomon Nokeakua-Stroud Tuliaupupu grew up in Southern California and emerged as one of the nation’s top high school linebackers at Mater Dei High School. During his senior season in 2017, he earned national recognition as one of the best defensive players in the country.
He won the High School Butkus Award, presented annually to the nation’s top linebacker. He also earned All-American honors, cementing his reputation as a blue-chip recruit.
Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing roughly 240 to 247 pounds during his college career, Tuliaupupu combined size, speed, and instincts that made him a highly sought-after prospect.
USC Years: Injuries and Perseverance
Tuliaupupu enrolled at USC in 2018 with high expectations. However, his college career began with adversity. A preseason foot injury forced him to redshirt during his freshman season.
Over the next several years, injuries continued to limit his availability. Despite remaining part of the program and working to return to full strength, he missed significant time.
In 2022, he finally saw meaningful action, appearing in 14 games. During that season, he recorded 10 tackles and 2.5 sacks, showing flashes of the potential that had made him a standout recruit.
However, injuries again impacted his progress in 2023. By 2024, he saw limited action before eventually entering the transfer portal.
Transfer to Montana and a Fresh Start
In 2025, Tuliaupupu transferred to the University of Montana, joining the Montana Grizzlies football program.
The move provided him with renewed opportunity and more consistent playing time. During the 2025 season, he appeared in 14 games and recorded approximately 43 total tackles. His performance added depth and experience to Montana’s defense.
The transfer marked a turning point. After years of setbacks, Tuliaupupu was once again a regular contributor on the field.
Historic Ninth Year of Eligibility
One of the most significant developments in his career came in February 2026, when the NCAA granted Tuliaupupu a ninth year of eligibility.
This rare decision allows him to return for the 2026 season. Very few players in NCAA history have competed across nine seasons. His extended eligibility stems from multiple injury-related redshirt seasons and medical hardship allowances.
At 25 years old, and turning 26 in March 2026, Tuliaupupu will be one of the oldest active players in Division I college football during the upcoming season.
The decision reflects current NCAA rules regarding redshirt years, medical waivers, and eligibility adjustments. It also underscores how injuries shaped his unusually long collegiate timeline.
Academic Achievements
Tuliaupupu’s time in college has not been limited to football.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2022. He later completed a master’s degree in Project Management. Throughout his academic journey, he received recognition for his performance in the classroom.
His extended eligibility allowed him to pursue advanced education while continuing his athletic career. Few college football players remain enrolled long enough to complete both undergraduate and graduate degrees while competing at a high level.
Leadership and Experience
With nearly a decade in college football programs, Tuliaupupu brings unmatched experience to the Montana roster.
His journey through injuries, transfers, and recovery gives him credibility among teammates. Coaches value players who understand adversity and maintain discipline through rehabilitation and setbacks.
As the 2026 season approaches, his leadership role within the program is expected to grow. Veteran players often serve as mentors for younger athletes navigating the early stages of their careers.
Why Solomon Tuliaupupu Age Matters in 2026
The conversation surrounding Solomon Tuliaupupu age goes beyond simple curiosity. His age highlights how NCAA eligibility rules have evolved in recent years.
Redshirt seasons, injury waivers, and pandemic-era eligibility adjustments have collectively extended some players’ careers. Tuliaupupu’s case stands out because of the number of seasons involved.
Turning 26 during the 2026 season places him significantly older than most college football players. Yet he remains eligible under current rules.
This reality demonstrates how modern college athletics can accommodate athletes whose careers are disrupted by serious injuries.
Career Statistics Overview
While injuries limited portions of his USC tenure, Tuliaupupu recorded 10 tackles and 2.5 sacks during the 2022 season with the Trojans.
After transferring to Montana, he posted approximately 43 total tackles during the 2025 campaign, appearing in 14 games.
Those numbers reflect a player who has regained consistency and availability after earlier physical setbacks.
Impact on the Montana Grizzlies
For Montana, Tuliaupupu provides:
- Size and physicality at linebacker
- Experience from a Power Five program
- Leadership from nearly a decade in college football
- Academic maturity and professionalism
Programs at the FCS level benefit from veteran players who have competed at higher divisions. Tuliaupupu’s time at USC gives him insight into high-level training standards and defensive schemes.
As Montana prepares for the 2026 season, his presence strengthens both the depth chart and locker room culture.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
With eligibility secured, Tuliaupupu is expected to compete during the 2026 campaign.
He will enter the season as one of the most experienced players in college football. His goals likely center on staying healthy, contributing consistently, and helping Montana compete at a high level.
At this stage in his career, longevity itself is part of his legacy.
A Rare College Football Story
College football careers rarely stretch this long. Most athletes complete their eligibility within four to five years.
Solomon Tuliaupupu’s path includes:
- Elite high school recognition
- Multiple serious injuries
- A redshirt season
- Limited action early in his career
- A full contributing season at USC
- Transfer to Montana
- A productive 2025 season
- Approval for a ninth season in 2026
Few players can claim such a timeline.
Final Snapshot
- Solomon Tuliaupupu is currently 25 years old.
- He will turn 26 in March 2026.
- He plays linebacker for the Montana Grizzlies.
- He previously played at USC.
- He has been granted a ninth year of NCAA eligibility.
- He holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
His story is one of persistence and adaptation within the evolving landscape of college athletics.
What do you think about Tuliaupupu’s historic ninth season — does it change how you view college football eligibility? Share your thoughts below.