Raiders 2022 7-Round Mock Draft: What to do post-Davante Adams trade
Raiders 2022 7-Round Mock Draft: What to do post-Davante Adams trade
. Defensive Lineman. Volunteers . Matthew Butler. 86. player. 839
Quinton Jefferson is taking his services to Seattle, and much of last year’s defensive line remains unsigned. Meanwhile, top free-agent options at defensive tackle have signed elsewhere, meaning that Matthew Butler at third looks like a possible outcome and a welcomed one.
The former Volunteer accumulated 11.5 tackles for a loss over the last 23 games at Tennessee. During those two seasons, Butler amassed seven sacks and two forced fumbles. Pro Football Focus also awarded him solid grades across the board: 76.4 in run defense and 72.9 in pass rushing.
Butler’s biggest asset will be his versatility, which will be essential in Patrick Graham’s defense. The six-foot-four, 295-pound defender is capable of making key stops in the run game, but he can also get after the quarterback. He saw playing time at almost every position on the line. His best fit in the NFL will be at three-tech.
Butler’s explosive first step will allow him to penetrate gaps and disrupt running lanes at the next level. Considering that the Raiders aren’t picking until the third round, selecting a versatile defensive lineman makes sense.