Broncos Sign Ron Stone Jr. as Hakeem Butler Released

The Denver Broncos have bolstered their pass-rush unit by signing 26-year-old outside linebacker Ron Stone Jr., while releasing wide receiver Hakeem Butler. Stone practiced with the team on Tuesday and is considered a contender for the 53-man roster.

Stone’s Background

Stone, listed at 6-foot-3 and 257 pounds, played college football at Washington State and signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent after the 2024 NFL Draft. He previously played in the UFL for the Michigan Panthers (2025) and Columbus Aviators (2026), accumulating 9 sacks and 4 tackles for loss in those seasons.

Broncos’ History with UFL Players

The Broncos have previously found success with UFL players, notably Dondrea Tillman, who has become a regular contributor to the team after being signed in 2024. Denver currently has a strong group of outside linebackers including starters Nik Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper, along with Tillman, Jonah Elliss, and Que Robinson, and also the 2023 third-round draft pick Drew Sanders, though he has struggled with injuries.

Cooper’s Uncertain Future

The Broncos’ plans are complicated by Jonathon Cooper’s ongoing legal issues, including a felony assault charge and domestic violence-related arrests. His availability for the start of the season remains uncertain. Stone’s performance over the next few weeks could provide valuable depth if Cooper is unavailable.