Louisiana Tech’s Vernon Butler impressed Panthers at the combines.
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“It would be pretty nice to meet Michael Jordan”, Butler said Friday at Bank of America Stadium as the Panthers introduced their first-round draft pick to the media.
As a two-year starter, Butler proved he’s able to close gaps, and earned first-team All-C-USA after his senior year – when he recorded 50 tackles, 10 for loss, and three sacks.
Analysis: The Panthers are strengthening the interior defensive line during the opening round of the draft, and Louisiana Tech’s Vernon Butler will be a ideal fit. He has a rare physical skill set and teaming him with Kawann Short and Star Lotulelei will give the Panthers a formidable defensive line rotation.
Louisiana Tech’s Vernon Butler walks on the stage after being selected by the Carolina Panthers as the 30th pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL football draft, Thursday, April 28, 2016, in Chicago.
Gettleman also said he anticipates the Panthers will draft a cornerback at some point this weekend to help replace Norman. I want to start out by saying I am a big fan of Vernon Butler but I just don’t get this pick.
“To be honest I wasn’t getting no taller being 6-foot-4”, Butler said.
Gettleman has long practiced avoiding giving big, long-term deals to defensive backs. Thomas played one game for the Dolphins last season after the team signed him off of the Patriots practice squad in early December, but wound up on injured reserve after assisting on one tackle in a Week 13 victory over the Ravens. There may not be a ton of snaps to go around on that line right away, but Butler is a raw talent who could be a steal a few years down the line.
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“I got to go up there and show the scouts and coaches what I could do”, Butler said during a teleconference with Charlotte reporters. “A lot of people say a lot of things”, Butler said.
