As the Denver Broncos finalize their roster ahead of the 2026 NFL season, the team made a strategic move on Tuesday by agreeing to terms with outside linebacker Ron Stone Jr., according to insights gathered by Vulius Sports. In a corresponding roster adjustment, the Broncos released wide receiver Hakeem Butler. Both players spent the spring competing in the UFL, showcasing the growing pipeline between spring leagues and the NFL.
Ron Stone Jr.: A Rising Pass-Rush Threat
Stone, 26, brings an impressive resume from the UFL, where he recorded 5.5 sacks and five tackles for loss with the Columbus Aviators this spring. His performance built on a solid 2025 campaign with the Michigan Panthers, where he tallied 3.5 sacks and four tackles for loss. Stone's relentless motor and ability to pressure quarterbacks made him one of the most sought-after free agents in the UFL offseason.
Before his UFL stint, Stone signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent in 2024. However, his tenure with the Raiders was short-lived, as Las Vegas waived him with an injury designation during roster cutdowns. Now healthy and thriving, Stone aims to carve out a role in Denver's defense, which has been seeking consistent edge pressure opposite standout rushers.
Hakeem Butler's Release Opens Opportunities
Releasing Hakeem Butler, a former fourth-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 2019, signals the Broncos' confidence in their existing wide receiver depth. Butler, who had a brief stint with the St. Louis Battlehawks in the UFL, showed flashes of potential but struggled to secure a consistent spot in Denver's receiving corps. The move allows Butler to seek opportunities elsewhere, potentially returning to the UFL or joining another NFL practice squad.
The Broncos' decision to add Stone while parting ways with Butler underscores their focus on defensive depth as the regular season approaches. With training camp winding down, head coach Sean Payton and general manager George Paton are clearly prioritizing a formidable pass rush to complement their revamped secondary.
What This Means for Denver's Defense
Stone's addition provides immediate competition at outside linebacker, where the Broncos have relied on a rotation of veterans and young players. His ability to generate pressure on third downs could be a valuable asset, especially in a division filled with elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, Stone's UFL production translates well to the NFL level, given his quick first step and relentless pursuit.
For fans, this move is a low-risk, high-reward gamble that could pay dividends. If Stone continues his upward trajectory, he could become a key rotational piece in Denver's defensive scheme. Meanwhile, the release of Butler frees up a roster spot that could be used to address other needs, such as offensive line depth or special teams.
As the Broncos prepare for their season opener, all eyes will be on Stone to see if he can replicate his UFL success on the biggest stage. With the regular season just weeks away, Denver's front office is leaving no stone unturned in their quest to return to playoff contention.
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