The Carolina Panthers had high expectations heading into the 2023 NFL Season. They drafted Bryce Young with the No. 1 overall pick, hoping he could help bring this offense to the next level. While Young showed some flashes at times, the Panthers were unable to realize their potential. They ended the season with the worst record in the league, causing them to go back to the drawing board in the offseason. The Panthers have already made a few moves and draft decisions to help build Young’s confidence, and they might not be done, according to Ian Rapoport’s recent tweet. Rapoport indicated that the Panthers are slated to conduct workouts with Hakeem Butler this week, a wide receiver phenom from the UFL.
The #Panthers are expected to work out UFL Offensive Player of the Year Hakeem Butler before summer break, source says.
The All-XFL pick had 45 catches for a league-best 652 receiving yards and 5 TDs for the St. Louis Battlehawks this season. A potential intriguing addition. pic.com/huo9elhP3s
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 10, 2024
Rapoport noted Butler’s stats from last year, as he amassed 45 catches for 652 yards and five receptions. The Panthers could be intrigued and interested in Butler’s production, considering he did this in just 10 games.
XFL and UFL players haven’t historically had great luck transitioning to the NFL, but NFL teams seem to be willing to give them a chance. The competition might not be as fierce as some of the top collegiate play around the country, but it does allow players like Butler to have an opportunity, to get reps they otherwise wouldn’t. With the Panthers’ record in mind from last year, they might be willing to shake things up, hoping they can do something to turn their record around. If Young has a chance to throw to Butler in this workout and likes what they could do together, the Panthers just might take a shot on him heading into the 2024 season.
