The Michigan Panthers can’t catch a break when it comes to injuries. Wes Hills, one of their star running backs this season, is now out for the season after going down early against the Memphis Showboats. He will be replaced by Toa Taua, who is re-signing with the team this week.
Breaking: @USFLPanthers RB Wes Hills is out for the season, per sources.
Really tough loss for Michigan. Hills went down early against Memphis with a leg injury. This year, he’s posted 277 rushing yards & 5 TD’s as RB1.
I’m told the Panthers are re-signing RB Toa Taua. #UFL pic.twitter.com/PiYqOrPrBG
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) May 20, 2024
Wes Hills will be tremendously missed by Marcel Bellefeuille in his offense. Hills came over to Michigan during the Dispersal Draft process, formerly with the New Orleans Breakers. He led the USFL with 680 rushing yards in 2023, alongside 10 rushing touchdowns.
After joining the Panthers, Wes has been an outstanding one-two punch with Matt Colburn. Hills has typically been used as RB1, but the two have worked with each other quite well in the backfield, splitting reps.
In 2024, Hills posted 277 rushing yards and five touchdowns. He had his “breakout game” in week five against the Showboats, totaling three rushing scores against his former coaching staff.
TOUCHDOWN
TOUCHDOWN
TOUCHDOWNHere’s what Wes Hills’ day looks like for us now 💨pic.twitter.com/bEYMnMWJBf
— Michigan Panthers (@USFLPanthers) April 28, 2024
He’s played 212 snaps this year – and won’t be easy to replace. Hills has been diagnosed with a quad-related injury, which will unfortunately end his season. We’re told that he will not be available for their postseason run.
Toa Taua Re-Signed
The @USFLPanthers are re-signing RB Toa Taua per @JamesLarsenPFN.
Originally signed before the conclusion of the ’23 season, Taua was cut in camp ahead of this season due to a deep RB room.
Welcome back to Michigan, Toa!#UFL #LetsHunt #BattleBorn