5 mid-round draft studs the Carolina Panthers must consider in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers must consider Matthew Butler
- Defensive Tackle | Tennessee
Losing DaQuan Jones to the Buffalo Bills in free agency was a blow. The Carolina Panthers did secure the services of Matt Ioannidis in free agency and also possess Daviyon Nixon, but it might be worth the organization exploring the lesser heralded college prospects to see if they can strike it lucky once again.
Finding productive players for the defensive line is something Carolina has done well over the last two years. Bravvion Roy, Nixon, and Phil Hoskins have all played a part to differing levels, but whether they are ready for increased reps next time around is another matter entirely.
Should the Panthers go after another mid-round defensive tackle to bolster their options, then Matthew Butler is a name to watch. The Tennessee lineman got an extra year of eligibility after the 2020 COVID-19 season and made the most of it with 47 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks during the campaign.
Butler might be a little undersized compared to your average NFL defensive tackle. However, his power and agility make him a force and his bull rush is something that really stands out on film.
There is some work to do for Butler when it comes to finishing off tackles effectively. Although the prospect has a high-end motor, his speed wouldn’t be classed as elite and this could also evolve into a major complication at the next level.