The UFL got off to a hot start with their signings, seeing one of their premiere players earn an NFL contract. Per Mike Garafolo of NFL network, Battlehawks Hakeem Butler is signing with the Denver Broncos following another All-UFL season, his 3rd All-League honor. Butler is coming off a season, in which he totaled 29 receptions for 641 receiving yards, enroute to his 2nd Offensive Player of the Year honor in the UFL.
Butler has been in the professional football since 2019, coming out of Iowa State joining the Cardinals in the 4th round of the NFL draft. He'd spend time with three NFL teams and two CFL teams before sending a "DM" to then Battlehawks Head Coach Anthony Becht asking for an opportunity. Butler would be selected by the Battlehawks in the 2023 supplemental draft and has amassed over 2,000 receiving yards, and 20 touchdowns for St. Louis since joining the Battlehawks in 2023.
Butler now joins his sixth NFL franchise in hopes of now "sticking" in the NFL. During his time in spring football Butler has earned contracts with the Pittsburgh Steelers (2023), and Cincinnati Bengals (2024) since 2023. Last season the UFL saw 64 players earn NFL contracts, with over 200 earning workouts. Butler is now the first UFL player to be reported to sign an NFL deal during the 2026 UFL to NFL class.