Panthers Re-Sign Matt Colburn, Siaosi Mariner, James Walker
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Panthers Re-Sign Matt Colburn, Siaosi Mariner, James Walker

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The re-signings just keep on coming for the Michigan Panthers. RB Matt Colburn, WR Siaosi Mariner, and OL James Walker have officially agreed to terms with the Panthers for the 2025 UFL season, as of yesterday:

RB Matt Colburn

Matt Colburn has been a staple in the spring football scene over the past few years. From his time in The Spring League, to his impressive stints with the Philadelphia Stars, Colburn has proven his value to every single team he’s been a part of.

Joining the Michigan Panthers was no different. He made his way to Michigan alongside former Stars OC Marcel Bellefeuille, who made sure Colburn was involved in the offense from the get go. While he played in eight games in the regular season, Matt still finished 5th in the UFL in rushing yards, with 401. He averaged 4.5 yards per carry, with four touchdowns.

Matt was an ideal one-two punch with Wes Hills, prior to Hills and his season ending injury. His growth throughout the year, behind a solid offensive line, led to what was arguably his best campaign yet in spring football. Colburn returning to the roster is excellent news for Bellefeuille, Jordan Pavlisin, and this entire Panthers offense.

WR Siaosi Mariner

One of the most underrated wide receivers in the UFL this season was Siaosi Mariner. He joined Michigan after the season already started, but found a way to earn a starting role down the stretch. Mariner ended up serving as one of the go to targets on the team, especially with some of the injuries they dealt with (i.e. Devin Ross, Marcus Simms).

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In 7 games, Mariner posted 346 receiving yards and two scores. Throughout the year, Mariner was always in the right place at the right time – converting multiple first downs for Michigan in clutch situations.

Siaosi saw success in their postseason loss against Birmingham, catching four passes for 60 yards and a touchdown. His speed, route running, and sure hands make him into a potential All-UFL candidate heading into 2025. He’s that good. Mariner should be in the WR1/WR2 conversation for the Panthers this upcoming UFL season.

OL James Walker

James Walker has spent the last two seasons with the Michigan Panthers, primarily on the inactive roster. He saw action in only two games in 2023, and did not get on the field at all in 2024. That said, he’s been an important depth piece to have on the roster, especially with some of the injuries that tend to pile up for Michigan throughout the year. He’s someone who will hope to get a true opportunity to perform in 2025.

Final Thoughts

It’s been a busy offseason for General Manager Steve Kazor. He re-signed a batch of 7 players last weekend, highlighted by E.J. Perry. Then, they brought back five more, including Devin Gray and Kedrick Whitehead.

With three more offensive playmakers locked back in for 2025, it certainly looks like Michigan feels good about their odds of running it back with primarily the same roster pieces. After a 7-3 record in 2024, this isn’t too surprising.

What are your thoughts on Matt Colburn back in the UFL for another season? Will Siaosi Mariner have a breakout campaign? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!

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