Hakeem Butler

Butler was a fourth-round pick of the Cardinals back in 2019 and has appeared in just two games since entering the league. Still waiting to catch his first NFL pass, Butler was named the UFL’s Offensive Player of the Year this season after going for 45-652-5 as a member of the St. Louis Battlehawks. The 6-foot-5 speedster who once blazed a 4.48 at the NFL Scouting Combine could have a chance to earn an invite to Panthers training camp if all goes well, but he would be a long shot to make the 53-man roster at this time.

Wide receiver Cody White was also waived with an injury deisgnation. Butler joined the Steelers after a successful stint in the XFL. Even if he doesn’t fine a new home in the NFL, it’s possible he returns to spring football next year.

Butler, 27, who had converted to tight end with the Eagles in 2020, tore up the XFL this spring for the St. Louis BattleHawks. Butler ranked second in receptions (51) and receiving yards (599) during the XFL's 2023 season. He dominated targets and catches for the BattleHawks, using his large frame efficiently. Butler has a shot to make the Steelers roster this season but would likely be the team's No. 4 wideout, at best. 

The Eagles signed and converted Butler from wide receiver to tight end in September. The experiment didn't immediately take, but Butler will now have the entire offseason program to learn his new position. Going on 25, Butler will be old for a third-year pro, though he has the size and physical ability to get on the Darren Waller/Logan Thomas track. That, of course, is an unlikely outcome.