- St. Louis Battlehawks WR Hakeem Butler Named Offensive Player of the Week presented by Progressive
- DC Defenders LB Derick Roberson Named Defensive Player of the Week presented by NOBULL
- Louisville RB Jaden Shirden Named Special Teams Player of the Week presented by Dynasty Financial Partners
ARLINGTON, TX (April 15, 2026) - Wide receiver Hakeem Butler of the St. Louis Battlehawks, linebacker Derick Roberson of the DC Defenders, and running back Jaden Shirden of the Louisville Kings have been named United Football League Players of the Week after strong performances in Week Three.
Offense: WR, Hakeem Butler, St. Louis Battlehawks
Wide receiver Hakeem Butler delivered one of the top performances of his UFL career, hauling in four receptions for 146 yards, including a 64-yard touchdown from quarterback Harrison Frost, to help rally the Battlehawks to a 34–30 victory over the Birmingham Stallions.
Defense: LB, Derick Roberson, DC Defenders
Linebacker Derick Roberson recorded five tackles, two sacks, and two tackles for loss, helping the DC Defenders limit the Houston Gamblers to 214 total yards in a 45–7 victory.
Special Teams: RB, Jaden Shirden, Louisville Kings
Louisville running back and kick returner Jaden Shirden leads the UFL with 372 return yards, following a five-return, 162-yard performance in the team’s 29–27 sudden-death loss to Orlando.
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About the United Football League
The United Football League (UFL) is the premier professional spring football league, powered by the visionary leadership and investment of Mike Repole and Impact Capital, RedBird Capital Partners, FOX, Dany Garcia, Dwayne Johnson, and ESPN. Built on innovation, accessibility, and competitive excellence, the UFL delivers the most engaging professional football experience in the world—for both players and fans. The league features eight teams: the Birmingham Stallions, Columbus Aviators, Dallas Renegades, DC Defenders, Houston Gamblers, Louisville Kings, Orlando Storm, and St. Louis Battlehawks. The 2026 season kicks off Friday, March 27.

