MISSOULA, Mont. – The University of Montana says the NCAA has granted another year of athletic eligibility to former cornerback Jimmy Wilson, who was acquitted of murder in the June 2007 shooting death of his aunt’s boyfriend.

Wilson was jailed in California for two years until he was acquitted last July. He asked UM to petition the NCAA to restore his senior season. The NCAA reached its decision late last week, and Wilson plans to join the team again this fall.

Wilson was a three-year starter in 2004-06. He says he’s thankful for the opportunity to further his education and compete for the school again.

Montana football coach Robin Pflugrad says Wilson has shown tremendous courage and strength of character over the past three years.