After what was a tremendous season with the Michigan Panthers, OT Ryan Nelson is finally headed to the NFL. The Los Angeles Chargers are signing Nelson, multiple sources confirm to Pro Football Newsroom.
BREAKING: The Los Angeles #Chargers are signing @USFLPanthers OT Ryan Nelson, per sources.
Nelson earned All-#UFL honors this year with Michigan, moving to tackle full-time. Had a strong 77.8 Pass Blocking Grade, via @PFF.
One of the most deserved signings this year so far. pic.twitter.com/FuirWX1pni
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) July 16, 2025
Nelson’s story is one that makes spring football so special. He’s been a part of this Panthers team for the last three seasons, seeing growth each and every year.
Over the past couple of seasons, Nelson primarily played at guard. In 2024, he played right guard for 100% of the snaps he took, putting together a decent campaign allowing just 13 pressures and two sacks.
However, Ryan took his level of play up to new heights in 2025. Nelson moved from guard to tackle, and started all 10 games – playing 613 snaps.
Ryan earned All-UFL honors as one of the top tackles in the UFL, earning an impressive 77.5 Offensive Grade via PFF (72.9 Run/77.8 Pass). He’s a vocal leader for the Panthers when his name is called upon, and was key in establishing Michigan as an elite offensive group in 2025.
Michigan Panthers RB Coach Jordan Pavlisin had this to say about Nelson, during a recent episode of Around The UFL:
“Ryan Nelson, he’s an amazing tackle. I call him the Admiral. He’s just as good of a leader, if not better, than he is a player. He keeps our guys going, he’s a great captain. And, he’s grown – he’s gotten so much better each season.”
For Nelson, this opportunity in the NFL has been a long-time in the making. He’s used the USFL/UFL to develop into the player that he is today – and all of that hard work has now resulted in a contract with the Los Angeles Chargers.
Ryan is the first Michigan Panthers player to sign an NFL contract this offseason. You can stay up to date on all UFL to NFL signings with our official tracker.
What are your thoughts on Ryan Nelson signing with the Los Angeles Chargers? Which Michigan Panthers player will be next? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
