Tennessee football: Ranking Vols by pro potential for 2022 NFL Draft
Defensive lineman. 839. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Raleigh, N.C.. Matthew Butler. 3. player
6’4″ 297 pounds
Once again, we’re dealing with a player who brings lots of versatility to the table. Matthew Butler started out playing defensive end for Tennessee football in the nickel-heavy 4-3 defense that Bob Shoop installed under Butch Jones. He then moved to the one down lineman defensive end in Jeremy Pruitt’s 3-4 defense.
When Tim Banks arrived and reinstalled the defense Shoop ran, Butler moved over to defensive tackle. Combined with the versatility of those different roles, Butler also had production to match it, as this past year, he had eight and a half tackles for a loss, five sacks, a forced fumble and 47 total tackles, 19 of which were solo.
At the NFL Combine, Butler further proved himself. His 5-even 40-time was slightly faster than average. Although his 7.89 three-cone drill was below average for a defensive tackle, it was above average for a nose tackle. He also had a vertical and broad jump higher than average.
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Butler’s bench press was below average, suggesting he’s more of a hybrid defensive lineman based on athleticism in the pros, but there’s room for that. He’s Mel Kiper’s favorite defensive tackle in the draft for a reason, and he’ll likely land with a team early on the final day. That team will probably have found a steal.