Former Spartan Defensive Lineman Among Best in United Football League

Willekes not only left Michigan State as the all-time leader for tackles for loss, but he also left with plenty of other huge accolades. He was the defensive lineman of the year in the Big Ten in 2017. Not to mention, as a senior, he won the Burlsworth Trophy in 2019. 

His terrific Spartan career led to his selection in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. Despite spending two seasons with the organization, injuries pretty much limited Willekes from ever making an impact in the NFL. 

After a failed tryout with the hometown Detroit Lions, the Grand Rapids native signed with UFL's Michigan Panthers before the 2024 season. 

His first season with the Panthers saw him play nine games and finish with 20 total tackles, along with four sacks and five tackles for loss. A great first season. This has led to a breakout season in 2025. 

Willekes came up big in the Panthers' most recent game. As Michigan was able to escape with a 25-24 win against the Arlington Renegades. Kenny finished with five tackles, three tackles for loss, and a sack. 

His numbers this season have been very impactful for the Panthers, who sit 5-2 on the season. They are so impactful that he might be right in line for a shot at the UFL defensive player of the year. 

Through seven games, Willekes has registered 25 tackles, six tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. The Panthers have three games left and look destined for a second-straight playoff berth. 

They will look to avenge a conference championship loss, this time around. To see this former two-time 1st-team All-Big Ten performer, still making noise, especially in the UFL and for the Michigan Panthers, it will be interesting to see if his success in the UFL will get him another shot in the NFL. 

The Panthers helped get kicker Jake Bates the Detroit Lions' job. Who knows what the future holds for Willekes? One thing is for sure: he's making noise in the UFL and proving he's one of the best defensive linemen in the league.