Hakeem Butler. Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Could XFL star WR make Steelers roster after surprise cut?

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 6/21/23

There is still a long time between now and cut-down day when teams must decrease to 53-man rosters. But does the Steelers' recent surprise release make way for XFL star WR Hakeem Butler to make the team in 2023?

It's not guaranteed but it's certainly looking more likely as Butler's competition for WR5 is now down to Gunner Olszewski, Miles Boykin and himself after Pittsburgh parted ways with WR Anthony Miller on Tuesday.

Butler signed with the Steelers after playing for the St. Louis Battlehawks in the XFL this spring where he caught 51 passes for 599 yards and a league-leading eight touchdowns.

The #Steelers are signing WR Hakeem Butler, who plated for the XFL's St. Louis Battlehawks and put up 51 receptions for 599 yards and a league-best 8 TDs. Back in the NFL after a successful run in the XFL.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 16, 2023

He earned his way back into the NFL where he began his career with the Cardinals as a fourth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. He also spent time with the Panthers and Eagles in 2020.

Butler will join the rest of the team at St. Vincent College for Pittsburgh's training camp at the end of July when the true test begins.

Boykin and Olszewski likely have the upper hand in making the Steelers' 53-man roster with their previous experience on the team as well as their special teams capabilities.

However, if Butler shows up and shows out, it could be difficult for Pittsburgh to let him go.

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