Hakeem Butler awarded UFL Offensive Player of the Year
· Yahoo Sports
Former Iowa State wide receiver Hakeem Butler has made UFL history by becoming the first player to be named the Offensive Player of the Year twice, securing the 2026 title after previously winning in 2024. The St. Louis Battlehawks star was chosen for the award by a committee of coaches, media and league personnel following a stellar regular-season performance.
Butler, who also earned a spot on the 2026 All-UFL Team, dominated the league’s receiving categories. Over nine games, he led the UFL in total receiving yards (641), yards per game (71.2), and average yards per catch (22.1). Known for his big-play ability, he recorded nine catches of at least 30 yards and scored three touchdowns, highlighted by a 75-yard score against the DC Defenders.
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Despite being sidelined for one game, Butler nearly broke his own league and franchise record of 652 receiving yards set in 2024, falling short by only 11 yards. One of his season highlights included a Week 3 performance against the Birmingham Stallions, where his 146 yards and a crucial 64-yard touchdown earned him Offensive Player of the Week honors.
Beyond this season’s accolades, Butler became the all-time leader in modern spring football receiving yards. With a career total of 2,192 yards, he surpassed the previous record of 1,801 yards held by Jonathan Adams. His physical size and explosive skill set have made him a consistent challenge for defenses over the past three seasons with the Battlehawks.
Butler will be celebrated at the UFL Awards on Friday, just before the United Bowl takes place on Saturday at Audi Field.