Former St. Louis Battlehawks wide receiver Hakeem Butler (88) Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers add another big weapon for QB Kenny Pickett

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 5/17/23

The Steelers wrapped up their rookie minicamp last weekend and they may have found another big-time target for second-year QB Kenny Pickett.

On Tuesday, Pittsburgh signed WR Hakeem Butler, who got the invite after posting 51 catches for 599 yards and a league-best eight touchdowns this season in the XFL.

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

Butler joins RB Alfonzo Graham and CB Luq Barcoo, who is also from the XFL, as players signed to the Steelers' 90-man roster following rookie minicamp.

However, it will be no easy task to make the 53-man roster as he is added to a room that already includes receivers Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, Allen Robinson II, Calvin Austin III, Gunner Olszewski, Anthony Miller and Miles Boykin.

Butler, who is a massive 6-foot-5, 227 pounds and is still only 26, was a fourth-round pick by the Cardinals in the 2019 NFL Draft but battled injuries for most of his NFL career. He spent time with the Cardinals, Panthers and Eagles from 2019-20.

Pittsburgh hasn't been shy in wanting to get bigger and more physical in 2023, and Butler certainly provides that.

Butler earned his shot to get back in the NFL and now he's looking forward to taking advantage of his second chance.

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