It’s official: we have our first UFL to NFL signing of the 2026 season. This one is no surprise: WR Hakeem Butler is signing with the Denver Broncos, according to Mike Garafolo.
Butler has spent the last four seasons in the XFL and UFL with the St. Louis Battlehawks. He hasn’t gotten NFL looks the last two years, but now is officially having a contract offered to him from Denver, after he worked out with the team on Thursday.
During the 2026 UFL season, Hakeem Butler was on another level. He’s always been elite, but even by Butler’s standards, he stepped up. Hakeem averaged 22.1 yards per reception, setting a UFL record in that department. He led the league with 649 receiving yards, while racking up a few touchdowns as well.
For a second season in the UFL (2024, 2026), Hakeem Butler was named as the league’s Offensive Player of the Year. He was also named to the All-UFL First Team Offense.
At 6’6”, with his route running abilities, Hakeem is a mismatch nightmare for opposing defenses. He’s hopeful that another incredible year in the UFL can finally give him the opportunity he deserves. Butler is now the modern spring football all-time leader in receiving yards, with 2,192. He passed Jonathan Adams in that category this year.
We’re hearing that over 100 UFL players either had workouts with NFL teams already, or are on deck to visit at least one NFL organization.
It’s a testament to what the UFL platform stands for: giving athletes another chance to chase their dreams. Butler certainly will not be the last player to sign a contract this offseason.
You can stay up to date with all UFL to NFL movement with our official tracker.
What are your thoughts on Hakeem Butler signing with the Denver Broncos? Which UFL player should be next? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
