BREAKING: The Michigan Panthers have re-signed DE Breeland Speaks, per sources. Speaks is coming off a Defensive Player of the Year campaign in the UFL

BREAKING: The Michigan Panthers have re-signed DE Breeland Speaks, per sources. Speaks is coming off a Defensive Player of the Year campaign in the UFL, where he led the league in sacks, with 9.5 (32 TKL/13 TFL’s). Panthers get one of their stars back for a third season. | James Larsen

The Michigan Panthers have made a major move in securing their defensive front by re-signing star defensive end Breeland Speaks, per sources. Speaks, who was a dominant force in the United Football League (UFL) last season, is returning to Michigan after an outstanding campaign that saw him earn Defensive Player of the Year honors.

A former second-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, Speaks revitalized his career in the UFL, emerging as one of the league’s premier pass rushers. In 2024, he led the Panthers’ defensive unit with a relentless motor, finishing among the league leaders in sacks, tackles for loss, and quarterback pressures. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses was a key reason Michigan remained a playoff contender throughout the season.

Bringing back Speaks ensures that the Panthers retain a cornerstone of their defense as they look to build on last season’s success. His return also strengthens a Michigan pass rush that was among the best in the UFL, giving the team a reliable leader both on and off the field.

For Speaks, this re-signing represents another step in his journey back to professional prominence. After bouncing around the NFL and spending time in various alternative leagues, he found a home in Michigan and proved that he still has the talent to dominate at a high level. His impact goes beyond just sacks—his leadership, work ethic, and experience make him invaluable to the Panthers’ locker room.

With Speaks back in the fold, Michigan’s defense is poised to once again be a force in the UFL. As the Panthers continue shaping their roster for the upcoming season, keeping their Defensive Player of the Year is a massive statement of intent. Fans can now look forward to another season of Speaks terrorizing opposing quarterbacks and leading the charge for Michigan’s championship aspirations.