The Carolina Panthers are considering signing former fourth-round wide receiver Hakeem Butler after a recent tryout. According to a source, the Panthers aim to add depth by bringing in the UFL star, who has been making a name for himself outside the NFL with impressive numbers. Butler recently earned the UFL’s Offensive Player of the Year award after leading the league in receiving yards and securing the second-most touchdowns.
Butler, who has previously spent time in the NFL and Canadian Football League, is familiar to Panthers fans from his brief stint on their practice squad in 2020. He has been working to improve his playmaking abilities while bouncing between the XFL and other leagues, a strategy that appears to be paying off as he attracts renewed NFL interest.
Veteran NFL coach Wade Phillips has vouched for Butler’s growth, describing him as a different receiver than in his early career. Butler, an Iowa State product, was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2019 but missed his rookie season due to injury. Despite spells with the Eagles and Steelers, he has yet to log an NFL catch.
The Panthers, who have bolstered their receiving corps to support quarterback Bryce Young, are hopeful Butler can contribute. His potential signing comes as the team continues to refine their roster for a more competitive season.
**Other Potential Destinations for Hakeem Butler:**
**Dallas Cowboys:** Rumors suggest the Cowboys should heed Phillips’ recommendation regarding Butler. With Phillips’ past connection to the team, Butler could get a chance to prove himself among Dallas’ receivers, providing short-term depth behind Jalen Tolbert and Jalen Brooks.
**Baltimore Ravens:** The Ravens, thin at wide receiver after letting Odell Beckham Jr. go, could benefit from adding Butler to complement Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. This move would provide Lamar Jackson with additional offensive options.
Kansas City Chiefs:** The Chiefs might explore incorporating Butler into their dynamic offense, potentially rotating him with Kadarius Toney and Mecole Hardman to strengthen their receiving corps.
**New Orleans Saints:** The Saints, needing more weapons beyond Chris Olave, could find a cost-effective solution in Butler. His addition would offer some upside for Derek Carr’s offense.
**Los Angeles Chargers:** With the departures of Mike Williams and Keenan Allen, the Chargers might consider Butler to help build a new receiving lineup for Justin Herbert. This move could be a strategic step towards their playoff ambitions.
