Missouri added a depth option by adding Montana running back Va’aimalae (Malae) Fonoti to complement running backs Ahmad Hardy and Jamal Roberts.
Despite retaining their top option, Hardy will likely enter the draft after the season, so Drinkwitz and the team will be looking for a replacement. Fonotti spent two seasons at Montana — redshirting his freshman year but appearing in three games — and came to Missouri with three years of eligibility remaining.
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The news was announced on January 16 and confirmed by the Tigers a day later.
In Fonotti’s two seasons at Montana State, he totaled 418 yards rushing, 116 yards receiving, and five touchdowns. While he may have a smaller role this upcoming season, he has proven that he can be missed at the college level.
Mizzou’s running backs lost Brenden Haygood, Marquis Davis and Tavorus Jones to the portal, and have since taken over running backs Fonotti and Houston Christian Seshaun Edwards. The team will also introduce Maxwell Warner in the class of 2026 this offseason.
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Along with a strong offensive line, Fornotti showed off his strength and speed to help Montana State have a super-successful season. He shows good balance in the tackle and obvious explosiveness on the cut. If he can transfer his style of play to the SEC, he should be a legitimate name for Missouri fans to keep an eye on.
where he fits
I expect Fornotti to have a minimal role this season, with returners Hardy and Roberts likely to be the show’s leads. That being said, I think Fornotti will get a chance to show what he’s capable of, and with three years of eligibility left, there’s plenty of time for Fornotti to get up the totem pole.
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when he plays
He might get some work this year, But 2027 to 2028 is expected to be Fonoti’s breakout year. It’s hard to compete with a running back who was outstanding a season ago, and I think this is a long-term move for Fornotti.
what does that mean
The additions keep coming, and while this isn’t exactly a position the Tigers need, it’s still a good addition. Fonoti has proven he can compete and perform at the top level in the FCS, but only time will tell how that translates to the SEC. Either way, any addition would be a good addition to match the era and age of the transfer portal.