By: Jesse Germonprez
The Michigan Panthers made a few notable roster adjustments this week that could’ve easily stirred concern from fans:
- Wide receiver Marcus Simms was traded to the Houston Roughnecks in exchange for Cam Carter
- Defensive end Breeland Speaks was placed on Injured Reserve
- Offensive guard Grant Miller (Baylor) was signed, boosting depth in the trenches
Both Simms and Speaks had been key contributors through the first two weeks of the season. When news broke, questions quickly followed. Are the Panthers panicking? Rebuilding on the fly?
Actually, it’s the opposite.
These moves are more about sharpening the vision, not shifting it. This coaching staff believes in what they’re building, especially on the defensive side of the ball. And right now, the defense is exactly where this team is drawing its strength.
WR Marcus Simms Traded: A Change in Direction, Not a Step Back
Let’s address the big one: trading away Marcus Simms. He was Michigan’s most productive receiver through two games, posting 7 catches for 65 yards, often operating as the team’s motion man and occasional deep threat.
But here’s what matters—no receiver has taken over as a true WR1, and that seems to be by design. This offense has been spreading the ball efficiently:
Siaosi Mariner: 6 catches, 79 yards
Samson Nacua: 3 catches, 56 yards
Gunnar Oakes (TE): 4 catches, 39 yards
Colburn & McCrary: 5 combined receptions out of the backfield
It’s a scheme-driven passing game built on quick throws, spacing, and making smart reads—not deep, vertical route trees. Bryce Perkins hasn’t been tasked with airing it out 40 yards downfield. He’s been asked to extend plays, hit check-downs, and let his guys create after the catch.
Enter Cam Carter, who came over from Houston in the Simms trade. A former standout at Murray State, Carter’s game fits the direction the Panthers seem to be leaning: quick routes, sure hands, and versatility. He’s not a burner, but he plays with great timing and body control—perfect for a system that’s focused on short-yardage efficiency and smart football.
Rather than trying to force a clear WR1 into the mix, the Panthers may now have a more cohesive group with defined roles—and that could help Perkins build rhythm and chemistry moving forward.
Adding Interior Help: Grant Miller Brings Experience
In addition to the Simms/Carter swap, the Panthers brought in Grant Miller, a 6’4″, 310-pound guard who started over 40 collegiate games at Baylor and Vanderbilt. He’s smart, physical, and played in both zone and power run schemes during his time in the SEC and Big 12.
Michigan has averaged 107.5 rushing yards per game through two weeks, but they’ve struggled in short-yardage and red zone situations. The goal-line sequence against Birmingham—where the team ran four straight times without breaking the plane—was the most obvious example.
Miller might not start right away, but his presence adds real depth to an interior line that needs to find its push in critical moments. With Michigan leaning into RPO and power concepts, Miller’s experience could prove valuable as early as this Sunday.
Breeland Speaks to IR: A Leader Sidelined, but Not Forgotten
The loss of Breeland Speaks—even temporarily—is a tough one. He’s been a core piece of this defense since 2023, and through two games this year, he racked up 6 total tackles and 2.0 tackles for loss. His presence on the edge was critical, especially when it came to setting the tone physically.
But the good news? The defensive line has depth, and there are guys already stepping into bigger roles:
Kenny Willekes: 5 tackles, 1.0 sack, and a key stop on third down vs. Birmingham
Mika Tafua: 6 tackles, 2.0 TFLs, and 1 sack, showing excellent burst
Garrett Marino: 8 tackles and 0.5 sacks working from the interior
And on top of that, Levi Bell, who looked strong in Week 1 before exiting with an injury, is expected to return soon. When healthy, Bell brings elite motor and disruptive energy.
Head coach Mike Nolan has built this defense with depth in mind. The loss of Speaks stings—but with Bell coming back, and the rest of the rotation playing fast and physical, this group can stay on track without losing its identity.
The Defense Has Been the Foundation All Along
If there’s one thing that’s been clear through two games—it’s that the Panthers’ defense is playing at a high level and keeping this team in every game.
Team defensive stats through Week 2:
3 interceptions (Miller 2, Nacua 1)
6 pass breakups
2 sacks, 5 QB hurries
20 points allowed to Birmingham, despite multiple short-field situations
3 forced turnovers, none converted into offensive points
Frank Ginda leads the team with 16 total tackles, 1 PBU, and a half-sack. He’s been everywhere—stuffing runs, dropping in coverage, and barking out assignments pre-snap.
Kai Nacua has been equally impactful: 14 total tackles, 2 pass breakups, and an interception in two games. He’s directing traffic in the secondary and laying big hits across the middle.
Brock Miller is off to a breakout start—2 interceptions, 3 PBUs, and solid tackling in man coverage. He’s being tested by opposing quarterbacks and answering the bell.
This defense isn’t just surviving—it’s producing. The front seven is controlling the line, and the secondary is forcing mistakes. With a little more help from the offense and special teams, this unit could start flipping games by themselves.
This Team Still Has a Lot in Front of Them
The Panthers sit at 1-1, tied for second in the USFL Conference. They’ve already handled the Showboats, and had a legitimate shot to beat the Stallions. But the difference in that game was situational execution—not a lack of talent.
These moves don’t signal a rebuild. They reflect a focus on building consistency and depth. The Simms trade makes room for a clearer offensive identity. The addition of Miller addresses one of the team’s most glaring needs. And while Speaks hits IR, the defensive front has enough muscle to keep pressing forward.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Identity
This team has a defense that can travel, can take the ball away, and can give the offense short fields—if they’re given just a bit more support.
With Perkins getting more comfortable, and the offense narrowing its focus, Michigan may actually benefit from simplifying the system and defining roles more clearly. If the passing game sharpens, and special teams avoids major errors, this team is in a position to string wins together.
The Panthers didn’t flinch when faced with adversity this week—and fans shouldn’t either.
Because if the defense continues to perform like it has, and the offense leans into what it does well, this team will be hunting in the second half of the season. Check out the schedule and get tickets here. Don’t forget to follow AFN for more UFL Updates!
