The Michigan Panthers have their first NFL signee, as Tino Ellis has officially signed a deal with the Miami Dolphins. Tino has spent time with Miami previously, and rejoins the NFL organization after a solid year in the USFL.
Tino Ellis, a former USFL standout corner, signed with Miami Dolphins this morning, per a league source. Had previous stint with Dolphins @USFL
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) July 27, 2022
While the Panthers had a rough outing in 2022, Ellis was a reliable cornerback for Jeff Fisher’s squad. He finished the season with 36 tackles, alongside one interception.
PICKED OFF@IamTinoEllis with the big-time play on defense 🔒🐾
📺: @NBCSports pic.twitter.com/wVGYPlTCi4
— Michigan Panthers (@USFLPanthers) June 11, 2022
Throughout the majority of the year, Ellis made things happen for Michigan. Now, he gets to pursue his NFL dreams with the Dolphins, due to his performances in the USFL.
Not in our house 😤@IamTinoEllis lays the hammer 🔨
📺: @NBCSports & @PeacockTV | #USFLOpeningWeekend pic.twitter.com/NUqOoeEPqz
— Michigan Panthers (@USFLPanthers) April 17, 2022
Yesterday, it was announced that the Panthers had signed a few players. This included a couple of defensive backs, who will likely be replacements for Ellis heading into OTA’s down the road. While he could return to the Panthers if this stint with the Dolphins ends soon, it’s great to see USFL organizations pursuing athletes in the offseason.
Roster Updates:
Free Agent Signings:
• DB Kiante Hardin
• DB Keandre Evans
• WR La’Darius McElroy
• RB LaDarren Brown— Michigan Panthers (@USFLPanthers) July 27, 2022
You can stay up to date on all the USFL players moving to the NFL with our official tracker.
Did you enjoy watching Tino Ellis in the USFL? What do you think of Miami signing him heading into training camp? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
