The Detroit Lions ought to pursue the UFL’s Offensive Player of the Year, Hakeem Butler, for their team.
This week, a video from the UFL gained widespread attention, and rightfully so. Renowned coach Wade Phillips, currently leading the San Antonio Brahmas in the UFL, had a conversation with St. Louis BattleHawks receiver Hakeem Butler, expressing his intention to advocate for him with NFL teams for an opportunity.
“You’re an exceptional player,” Phillips commends. “I’ll make sure to spread the word to every NFL contact I have that you deserve a chance on the field.”
This moment underscores the UFL’s potential to uplift players who may have been overlooked initially. Hakeem Butler, in particular, stands out as someone the Detroit Lions should seriously consider.
Butler’s NFL journey started with promise but quickly dimmed. Selected in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Cardinals, his rookie season was marred by a hand injury, and he was subsequently released without another opportunity. His stint with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2020 as a tight end yielded minimal playing time, mostly on special teams.
Afterward, Butler struggled to find stability, bouncing between the CFL and inactive stints. However, the emergence of spring leagues provided the platform he needed. In the XFL in 2023, he excelled, leading in receiving touchdowns and ranking second in yardage in just eight games. This success continued in the UFL, where he earned Offensive Player of the Year honors with impressive stats.
With the Battlehawks out of contention, Butler is already drawing interest from the Carolina Panthers, but the Lions should vie for his attention.
While Detroit anticipates another potent offense in 2024, the departure of Josh Reynolds leaves a void. Though Antoine Green and Donovan Peoples-Jones are considered replacements, their spring camp performances were underwhelming, and the Lions thrive on healthy competition.
Butler mirrors many aspects of Reynolds’ contributions to the team. His height, speed, and ability to secure contested catches would bolster the Lions’ offensive arsenal.
So, why did Butler struggle initially in the NFL? Emerging from Iowa State, his route versatility was questioned, and his raw talent needed refinement. Limited preseason opportunities hindered his development, exacerbated by the cancellation of preseason games in his second year due to COVID-19.
The XFL and UFL provided Butler with invaluable game experience to hone his skills. While concerns persist about his separation ability, it’s undeniable that Butler warrants another chance in the NFL, with Detroit serving as an ideal destination. The Lions offer both opportunity and a supportive coaching staff to further cultivate his talent.
