It has been a brutal week for the Michigan Panthers. Sources tell Pro Football Newsroom that RB Matt Colburn is headed to the IR list, shortly after star DE Breeland Speaks made his way there as well.
This news couldn’t have come at a worse time for Michigan. They’re still trying to find an identity offensively, stumbling against the Stallions in week two at home. On top of that, they just traded their star WR Marcus Simms to the Houston Roughnecks – in a move that has many spring football fans scratching their heads.
To lose Colburn now is far from ideal. Matt was a key component to Michigan’s offense in 2024, and was one of the UFL’s leading rushers. He split time with Wes Hills for most of the season, but came into his own as the starter once Hills went down with injury.
In 2024, Matt rushed for 401 yards and four touchdowns. He turned it on towards the end of the year, especially as Michigan went on their five game winning streak. OC Marcel Bellefeuille used Matt in a variety of ways, which was no surprise as the two worked together in the USFL, with the Philadelphia Stars.
Matt Colburn been like that, FYI.
Always has been one of the most underrated RB’s in spring football. Massive impact on this scoring drive for the @USFLPanthers to start this game.
Also, shoutout the O-Line for some excellent blocking. #UFLpic.twitter.com/MPMu4Gppqa
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) May 12, 2024
See also
This season, Colburn had 18 carries for 77 yards, averaging 4.2 YPC. He was splitting time with Nate McCrary in the backfield. Matt was also involved as a kick returner – which is where he suffered…