The Saints’ Next Big WR Could Be in the UFL

The New Orleans Saints just completed drafting their new players just days ago. But they failed to bolster one position of need and that is the WR position. The Saints since the days of Michael Thomas have had a hard go of finding another reliable big-bodied WR.

Many savvy veteran names that fans have thrown around like Keenan Allen and Amari Cooper just do not seem to fit what Kellen Moore and the New Orleans Saints want at the moment.

One intriguing option at the position the Saints should look into is UFL star Wide Receiver Hakeem Butler. Standing at 6'5" and weighing 227 pounds, Butler combines size, athleticism, and a proven track record that could fill the void in the Saints' receiving corps.

A Journey of Resilience and Performance

Butler's professional journey has been marked by perseverance. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, his rookie season was derailed and cut short by a hand injury. Subsequent stints with teams like the Carolina Panthers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Pittsburgh Steelers didn't yield significant playing time. However, Butler found his stride finally in the UFL, showcasing his talents with one of the premier teams, the St. Louis Battlehawks.​

Dominance in the UFL

In the 2024 UFL season, Butler led the league with 652 receiving yards on 45 receptions, averaging 14.5 yards per catch, and scoring five touchdowns. His performance earned him the UFL Offensive Player of the Year award and a spot on the All-UFL Team. Notably, he recorded two of the top three receiving games that season, with standout performances of 147 and 134 yards. His 80-yard touchdown reception was the second-longest play from scrimmage during the regular season. ​

Continuing his impressive form into 2025, Butler has recorded 124 receiving yards and two touchdowns in just two games, averaging an astounding 62 yards per reception. His recent performance included two long touchdown receptions, demonstrating his big-play ability. 

Why Hakeem Butler Fits the Saints

The Saints' offense could benefit from Butler's skill set. His size and catch radius make him a formidable red-zone target, and his ability to stretch the field complements the team's existing receiving group of Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, and Brandin Cooks. 

Butler's journey reflects resilience and a continuous drive to improve, qualities that align with the Saints' current culture.​ Butler is also on the younger side being just 28 years old with plenty tread left on the tires.

Conclusion

Hakeem Butler's resurgence in the UFL demonstrates his readiness to contribute at the NFL level at this very moment. For the Saints, signing Butler could address their need for a big-bodied receiver and add a dynamic element to their passing game. His combination of size, experience, and recent performance makes him a worthy candidate to watch, and one the Saints should look into soon.