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NFL Draft: Grading each Panthers pick

By Brandon Scott

Sep 7, 2013; Little Rock, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Javontee Herndon (19) catches a pass defended by Samford Bulldogs defensive back James Bradberry (21) during the first half at War Memorial Stadium. Arkansas defeated Samford 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2013; Little Rock, AR, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks wide receiver Javontee Herndon (19) catches a pass defended by Samford Bulldogs defensive back James Bradberry (21) during the first half at War Memorial Stadium. Arkansas defeated Samford 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /
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Carolina Panthers
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Vernon Butler (Louisiana Tech) with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected by the Carolina Panthers as the number thirty overall pick in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft at Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

The Carolina Panthers have made all of their selections in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Dave Gettleman once again proved that he sticks to his plan, regardless of what the critics say. By taking a defensive tackle in the first round again and then tripling up at cornerback, he showed a willingness to both stay true to his board and address a big need when called for.

There will be plenty of time to evaluate each of the Carolina Panthers’ draft picks in 2016 over the coming years. For now, we like what we see.

Here is our official Cat Crave review of each pick, how they will fit with the Panthers, and a letter grade.

Round One #30 Overall: Vernon Butler: Louisiana Tech DT

Grade: A-

Why: Vernon Butler is the prototypical David Gettleman selection and will bolster the interior defensive line rotation with starters Star Lotulelei and Kawann Short. While Butler may be joining arguably the deepest position on the roster talent wise, his addition will only help to fuel the competition in camp.

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When the season arrives whoever is filling up the middle for Carolina will be able to not only stop the run, but pressure the quarterback repeatedly. Also, with a good rotation Panthers Defensive Coordinator Sean McDermott will be able to have quality players in on every down, providing a much needed late game pass rush with fresh defensive tackles up against tiring opposing offensive lines. Barring injury to Lotulelei, Short, and Soliai then Butler may not start during the 2016 season, but he will see playing time and should get time to develop.

With Lotulelei adding an extra year via the Panthers picking up his fifth year option, he now has two remaining along with Short’s single year. Vernon Butler may have an impact in 2016, but with positive progression he will anchor one of the most important defensive positions focused on by Gettleman since his beginning in Carolina.

Next: Round Two

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