East Michigan News

As the Michigan Panthers gear up for their final home game of the United Football League (UFL) regular season at Ford Field, tight end Gunnar Oakes reflects on his journey from Eastern Michigan University to professional football. The Swanton, Ohio native is relishing the opportunity to play in Detroit, close to where his football career began.

"I'm not sure I ever pictured this path," Oakes said. "But being here now, playing in Detroit, it feels right. I'm proud of how far I've come."

Oakes spent five seasons at Eastern Michigan University, amassing 56 receptions for 621 yards and two touchdowns. His breakout year came in 2022 with career highs in games played (12), catches (27), and receiving yards (279). Entering the professional ranks allowed Oakes to redefine his role.

"Coming out of college, I thought my best shot was to be that big, blocking tight end," Oakes said. "But after playing in the Panthers' system for a year, I saw how fast our offense was. I slimmed down, worked on becoming more of a receiving threat, and now I feel like it's all starting to come together."

This season has seen Oakes become second on the team in touchdown receptions and experience an increase in targets.

"It's about finding where you fit, but also pushing that ceiling," he said. "This league has been great for that."

Adjusting to the UFL schedule—centered largely out of Texas with travel into markets like Detroit—has been a unique experience.

"It's definitely unique," Oakes said. "Living in Texas and flying in for home games—it's not what you expect at first, but by year two, you start to get into the rhythm of it."

Oakes draws inspiration from his time at EMU under Head Coach Chris Creighton.

"One of the biggest things I took from Coach Creighton was how to lead without having to say much," Oakes said.

He also remembers Fred Reed, EMU's former defensive passing game coordinator who passed away unexpectedly in 2022.

"He was a defensive coach, and I was on offense, but he made an impact on everybody," Oakes said.

Oakes aims for future success while appreciating his current position with hopes of advancing further.

"It's a tease being at Ford Field, knowing the next step is right there," Oakes said. "That's the dream—to make that jump. But I'm grateful for where I am right now."

As they push towards playoffs after last season's UFL Championship loss, Oakes remains focused on both personal growth and team success.

"To Eastern Michigan, I'm always rooting for you guys—every fall I'm watching. And to Panthers fans, we've got three weeks left. We're going to get it done this year."

Oakes exemplifies determination as he continues representing EMU at a professional level from Ypsilanti to Detroit.