Jake Butt bids farewell to Denver

Per Mike Klis’ announcement today, Denver tight end Jake Butt will not be on the 2021 roster.

Since being drafted in 2017, Butt has displayed no shortage of eagerness when it comes to the Broncos, who picked him in the fifth round. Unfortunately, eagerness can’t protect a player from injuries, which started rolling in for him during his time at Michigan.

Due to an ACL tear during his senior year, Butt started his NFL career on the reserve/non-football injury list. The recovery period lasted through his entire first NFL season, and in 2018 he was again injured, limiting him to three games.

Complications with Butt’s recovery continued into 2019, where he remained on IR for the entire season. Then in 2020, between a hamstring pull and ongoing COVID-19 setbacks, Butt struggled again to stay on the roster. He played five games and only caught two passes for a total of five yards.

“The city of Denver, Broncos fans nationwide for the most part really supported me and wanted to see me succeed,” Butt told Klis. “I think even the people who may have poked fun at my injuries, deep down they care about the Broncos and would obviously want to see myself succeed.”

Despite his string of bad luck, Butt is keeping his eyes on the dream of playing good football as long as he can, with a fresh start in a new team.

“If I can get a shot somewhere I’m going to be ready,” he said. “I’m going to put out a good product and I believe I’m going to make a team. And hopefully get out there put together 17 healthy games and roll from there. So that’s my mindset.”

Butt also expressed his appreciation to the Broncos for their belief in him.

“I have nothing but love for Denver,” he said. “I wish them nothing but the best.”

Butt’s time and perseverance in Broncos Country will not soon be forgotten. Best wishes to him for a thriving and healthy 2021 season, wherever he finds himself next.