The Pittsburgh Steelers front office dipped into the XFL pool this offseason. Hakeem Butler was the big-name signing from the league, as he was one of the top wideouts this past season. Now, his massive frame has been impressing at OTAs and training camp. There is still a ways to go, but he could be playing his way onto the 53-man roster.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (@JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
The release of WR Anthony Miller helps Hakeem Butler's chances of making the Steelers' Week 1 53-man roster.
Butler was seen as one of the big winners of the early summer portions, specifically after the release of Anthony Miller. That move possibly signaled the team’s confidence in Butler and the overall depth at the position. At the beginning of the offseason, it was seen as a major need on the roster. The Iowa State product is enjoying his time in Pittsburgh, at least so far.
#Steelers wide receiver Hakeem Butler @410Keem @StevenSimsJr football camp @KPRC2 pic.twitter.com/3QzddrNy2e
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) June 26, 2023
“This offseason, [I am] just continuing to work, get better, stronger, faster. Just working on the game. Loving every minute of Pittsburgh, just really can't wait to get back."
Butler was present at former Steelers receiver, Steven Sims Jr.'s football camp in Houston, Texas in the video above from KPRC2 reporter, Aaron Wilson. Sims and Butler both came from the Houston area, as the two just narrowly missed out on being teammates in Pittsburgh. Sims left the Steelers this offseason, as he signed with his hometown team, the Houston Texans, on a one-year deal. While he didn't provide much on the offensive side of the ball in 2022, he became a solid returner.
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (@JSKO_PHOTO Twitter)
Steven Sims Jr. signed with the Texans in free agency, leaving the Steelers with a void in the return game.
He stepped up as the primary contributor there when Gunner Olszewski was benched just a month into the season. Heading into training camp, the Steelers don't have a clear returner now. While Pittsburgh may miss Sims' dynamic abilities, the recent kickoff rule change may help them a bit. Regardless, the team's wide receiver depth seems much better heading into 2023.
Who will be Steelers returner in 2023?
Butler is a big reason for that, no pun intended. The 6'5" wideout hasn't produced in the NFL yet, as injuries set him back after he was selected in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. In fact, he's played just one career offensive snap in the NFL, in addition to 29 special teams snaps. He hopes he has found a permanent home in the NFL though, and he's specifically enjoyed playing under Head Coach Mike Tomlin.
"It [viral locker room video] cut out some things, but it got the gist basically. I love playing for Tomlin, he's as straight as they come. He's going to tell you how it is. I love a guy like that."
Jordan Schofield / SteelerNation (Twitter: @JSKO_PHOTO)
Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin smiles on during 2022 training camp at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA, as he continues to be one of the most well-liked coaches in the NFL.
Butler was specifically asked about the video that went viral of Tomlin mic'd up during a team meeting this summer. The praise for the Pittsburgh head coach continues, as he was recently ranked the third-best coach in the NFL. Over the years, he's become one of the most well-respected people around the NFL. Plenty of players constantly praise him for how real and authentic Tomlin is with his players.
Former NFL defensive back Jason McCourty recently admitted that he had Tomlin and the Steelers on his wish list. Former Steelers returner and current San Francisco 49ers wideout, Ray-Ray McCloud applauded the head coach for keeping his career alive. You get the gist, Tomlin remains one of the best for his authenticity. Add Butler to that list, as he will continue to try and make the 53-man roster.
Do you think Butler will eventually make the 53-man roster? If so, what are your expectations for him on the offensive side of the ball? Does Tomlin remain one of the best coaches in the NFL? Share your thoughts in the comment section below, as well as on our social media sites, yinz!
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