Wide receiver Hakeem Butler has been honored as the UFL’s first offensive player of the year. Butler, who was an All-XFL selection in 2023, was recognized for his outstanding performance during the first season following the merger of the XFL with the USFL. During the season, Butler recorded 45 catches, 652 receiving yards, and five touchdowns for the St. Louis Battlehawks, leading the league in receiving yards. His impressive stats have earned him a spot in the conference title game against San Antonio this upcoming weekend.
Butler was drafted by the Cardinals in the fourth round of the 2019 draft, but only saw regular season action in two games with the Eagles in 2020. He later spent time with the Steelers during the offseason before returning to spring football. Despite facing some challenges in his career, Butler’s performance this season has solidified his status as one of the top offensive players in the UFL. His achievements on the field have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by his recent award as the league’s offensive player of the year.