Panthers' defense adds depth with Vernon Butler

The Carolina Panthers selected defensive tackle Vernon Butler out of Louisiana Tech with the 30th pick of the 2016 NFL Draft on Thursday.

The massive 6-foot-4, 323-pound senior brings depth to a strong Panthers rush defense that ranked fourth in the league, allowing just 88 yards per game on the ground.

Adding Butler alongside dominant frontline players such as Kony Ealy, Kawann Short, and Star Lotulelei should give the club one of the league's strongest units in 2016.

Vernon Butler Bio

Position: DT
School: Louisiana Tech
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-4
Weight: 323 lbs.

Strengths

• ​​​Impressive combination of size and athleticism allows him to produce when lined up at a number of positions across a defensive front.
• Possesses discipline required to excel as a two-gap defensive end in base sets.
• Shows awareness to avoid cut blocks and stay on his feet.
• Any concerns about competition level were alleviated with his standout Senior Bowl performance.

Weaknesses

• Lacks college production in the passing game, topping out with just three sacks as a senior in 2015.
• Needs a more extensive set of pass-rush moves to consistently get after the quarterback in the NFL.
• Inconsistent pad level could put him at a disadvantage against stronger opponents.

Combine results