The Carolina Panthers are trying out former fourth-rounder wide receiver, Hakeem Butler and could sign soon to an NFL deal. According to a source, it looks like the Panthers are trying to add some depth for the UFL star after getting Diontae Johnson this offseason. Butler has been establishing himself as one of the best wideouts outside of the NFL while recording big numbers in a new league. He won the UFL’s Offensive Player of the Year after leading their league in receiving yards and having the second-most touchdowns.
Butler has been in the NFL before taking his talents to explore other leagues, including the Canadian Football League. However, his name sounds familiar since he’s been a journeyman in his NFL tenure which would include spending 10 days on the practice squad for the Panthers in 2020. He would leave the league to establish himself as a better playmaker while bouncing around the XFL as well. It seems to be paying off for the veteran now that he’s getting interest from teams in the NFL.
Longtime NFL head coach, Wade Phillips gives teams approval that Butler is a different receiver than he was in his earlier days. Butler is looking to put those skills to the test when he works out for the Panthers soon. The Iowa State product was originally drafted in the 2019 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals but missed the entire campaign with an injury. Despite bouncing around teams including the Eagles and Steelers, he still has yet to log a catch in the NFL.
However, the Carolina’s receiving corps looks better than what they had last season. They’ve been able to do their homework to help Bryce Young get new weapons to help his flexibility for a better year.
Panthers Trying out Former Fourth-Rounder Hakeem Butler, Could Sign Soon
Other Potential Destinations
Dallas Cowboys
There’s a rumor that the Cowboys should consider listening to Phillips about what they’re saying about Butler. He could fit in nicely to establish himself among other wide receivers. One should take into account that Phillips was a part of the Cowboys earlier before Jason Garret and eventually Mike McCarthy took over. Butler would have Phillip’s full support to join America’s team.
Fans are eagerly waiting to see some more signings this summer so this may be the best fit for Butler. However, they have to set some money aside for CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott. Phillips still has a connection with Dallas so he should be Jerry Jones’ ear to recommend him. It would give Dallas some short-term relief on the roster behind Jalen Tolbert and Jalen Brooks.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens could be looking to sign the UFL breakout star to team with Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. They don’t have a lot of depth at the position since letting Odell Beckham Jr. walk. They’re one receiver away from a disaster so this is something they should avoid when trying to make a deep playoff run. However, to give Lamar Jackson the power to make this into a super team, you give him plenty of weapons.
Butler isn’t going to drastically change a roster, rather he’s more of a hidden gem.
Kansas City Chiefs
One can never imagine the Chiefs would start the season with Marquise Brown leading this core group. However, Xavier Worthy may need additional time to establish himself in this offense. Andy Reid should consider switching around Butler, Kadarius Toney and Mecole Hardman to see who wins the starting job. Hardman and Toney would probably win but it allows Butler to play for one of the most accomplished teams in the league.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints have surprisingly not made any moves after only having Chris Olave as their only reliable weapon. One would think that Dennis Allen would make a logical move to help the offense attack. Rashid Shaheed won’t do it alone so they need a cost-effective option like Butler. He isn’t Super Bowl material but he provides some potential upside to Derek Carr’s returning season to make it better.
Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh wouldn’t lose anything if they got Butler in the mix for Justin Herbert. Los Angeles isn’t getting anywhere or near a playoff run with the receivers they have. Mike Williams and Keenan Allen’s departure is going to hurt this offense no matter what so they may start early to establish new weapons.
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