With all of the talent this Michigan Panthers had in 2024, it’s not surprising to see a lot of returning pieces. Most recently, DE Kenny Willekes, LB Noah Dawkins, and S Sean Mahone re-signed for the 2025 UFL season.
The #UFL has announced the following transactions pic.twitter.com/sTGmCHEdNj
— UFL Communications Department (@UFL_PR) August 23, 2024
DE Kenny Willekes
One of the key offseason additions to this defense for Michigan was Kenny Willekes – who quietly had a fantastic season with the Panthers. Kenny was formerly a star at Michigan State, and played in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings for a time. An injury cost him his NFL gig, and after a full recovery, he made his way to the UFL.
Kenny didn’t make any starts this year – but saw the field quite often in the first nine games this year. Willekes was the perfect depth piece, fitting right into Collin Bauer’s defense. In 2024, Willekes racked up 21 tackles, five TFL’s, and four sacks.
WILLEKES 🔑@kennyw97 | #LetsHunt pic.twitter.com/2X861WkiYm
— Michigan Panthers (@USFLPanthers) April 22, 2024
Unfortunately, he got hurt on a fumble recovery in week nine against Houston, which put an end to his season. Having Willekes back in action for the 2025 campaign is excellent news, and if Breeland Speaks sticks in the NFL, Kenny could certainly be a starter next year.
LB Noah Dawkins
Noah Dawkins joined the Michigan Panthers in 2023, serving the team with excellent play that season with 35 tackles and an interception. Noah is a physical linebacker who has been one of the “glue guys” in the middle of that defense for a couple of years now.
Dawkins played in ten games this year with Michigan (including the postseason), starting in every single one. He had 38 tackles this season, and was a key piece in their playoff matchup against Birmingham, where he led the team with eight tackles and a forced fumble.
NOAH DAWKINS WITH THE SACK AND FUMBLE RECOVERY! 😎
What a…