The Broncos just agreed to terms with outside linebacker Ron Stone Jr., and in a corresponding move, they released wide receiver Hakeem Butler. This is the kind of roster shuffle you expect as teams fine-tune before the real games kick off.
Ron Stone Jr. Is Bringing the Pressure from the UFL
So, who’s this Ron Stone Jr.? He’s an outside linebacker, and he absolutely lit it up in the UFL this spring. Seriously, the guy was a force. While playing for the Columbus Aviators, he stacked up 5.5 sacks and five tackles for loss. Those aren’t small numbers, you know? This wasn’t a one-off either. Back in spring 2025, he played for the Michigan Panthers and tallied 3.5 sacks and four tackles for loss. Stone, who’s 26, actually got his start in 2024 with the Raiders as an undrafted free agent, but they waived him with an injury designation during their roster cutdowns. Now he’s getting another shot, and you gotta respect that hustle.
Hakeem Butler Released as Denver Makes Room
On the other side of this move, wide receiver Hakeem Butler is out. He also played in the UFL this spring. It’s tough when a player gets cut, but that’s the nature of the beast in the NFL. Every roster spot is a battle, especially this time of year. The Broncos clearly saw something they needed in Stone’s ability to get after the quarterback, and that meant making a difficult decision with Butler.
As August 25, 2026 rolls around, these types of transactions are crucial for teams like the Broncos. They’re adding a pass rusher with proven UFL production, hoping that translates to the big league. How will Stone adapt, and what kind of impact can he really make on that Broncos defense? We’re about to find out, and these roster moves are only going to get more intense as the regular season looms.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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