The Mountain West Conference is finalizing an agreement to add North Dakota State as a football-only member starting in 2026, according to a source with knowledge of the negotiations. An official announcement could come within the next week.
The Bison, winners of 10 of the last 15 FCS national championships, have long sought a move to the FBS level. Their addition would give the reshaped Mountain West 10 football-playing schools for the 2026 season, after Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State and Utah State depart for the Pac-12.
North Dakota State’s other sports are expected to remain in the Summit League. The program will also likely pay an entry fee that could reach eight figures, the source confirmed.
According to a Yahoo Sports report, Mountain West presidents have already agreed to extend the invitation. The Bison would likely be preseason favorites in the conference alongside UNLV and New Mexico.
North Dakota State last won the FCS title in 2024 and started 12-0 this past season before losing to eventual national runner-up Illinois State in the playoffs.
The Mountain West this week also announced a new media rights deal with CBS Sports, Fox Sports, the CW Network and Kiswe.
