The Michigan Panthers have added another offensive weapon to their roster. Gunnar Oakes – who was part of the USFL 2023 Collegiate Draft – has signed with the team.
The grind never stops even during the offseason.
The @USFLPanthers have added their 2023 7th Rd Draft pick, TE Gunnar Oakes from EMU to their roster.
Oakes received a minicamp invite to the Falcons this Spring.
Welcome (back) to Michigan, Gunnar!#USFL #LetsHunt pic.twitter.com/JkQicxWEbE
— Panthers Shadow (@USFLShadow) July 8, 2023
Oakes was taken in the seventh round of the USFL draft, but did not sign with the Panthers due to a minicamp invite with the Atlanta Falcons.
If Gunnar Oakes sticks with the Michigan Panthers, it will be a homecoming for him in 2024. Oakes has played for Eastern Michigan University the last few years, coming into his own over the past two seasons.
Gunnar had a career year in 2022, posting 279 receiving yards while averaging 10.3 YPR. Considering Oakes is a new signing, he is guaranteed a roster spot ahead of training camp for 2024.
The Michigan Panthers already feature a couple of talented tight ends. Marcus Baugh and Cole Hikutini both had productive years, with Cole posting five receiving touchdowns in 2023.
As the offseason grind continues, keep an eye on Michigan as they may look to reconstruct what was an inconsistent offense in the USFL this past season.
In other news, there’s plenty of buzz surrounding USFL to NFL signings. You can stay up to date on all of those moves with our official tracker.
What are your thoughts on Gunnar Oakes signing with the Michigan Panthers? Which potential USFL athletes should they pursue this offseason? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
