The Michigan Panthers signed defensive back Michael Tutsie and placed defensive back Bryce Torneden on the injured reserve list on Tuesday according to the UFL Transactions page.
Michael Tutsie is five foot eleven and weighs 189 pounds. The 27-year-old from Indianapolis, Indiana, signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent on June 15, 2023.
In 2023, he missed the season due to an injury. In 2024, he made three tackles (2 solos, 1 assist) in three preseason games. The Colts released him on August 17, 2024, and re-signed him on December 26, 2024. He became a free agent after the 2024 season.
Collegiately, Tutsie played five seasons at North Dakota State (2018-22) making 338 tackles (184 solos, 154 assists), 10.5 tackles for loss, half a sack, 11 interceptions for 154 yards, 22 pass breakups, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, one blocked kick, and one punt return for 22 yards in 68 games for the Bisons.
Tutsie was named a two-time First Team All-MVFC (2021-22), Second Team All-MVFC in 2020-21, First Team All-American by HERO Sports in 2021, Second Team All-American by AFCA and FCS Football Central in 2022, Third Team All-American by AP in 2022, Third Team All-American by Stats Perform in 2021, and a two-time All-MVFC Honor Roll.
During his time at North Dakota State, the Bisons went 78-8. Tutsie was part of four North Dakota State’s national championships and four Missouri Valley Football Conference championships. He finished his career with 56 consecutive starts.
