NFL Draft Profile: Darius Butler

Over the next few weeks, On to the Pike will offer profiles of players that the Patriots may draft. We begin with Darius Butler, a cornerback from Connecticut that is projected as a late first-round, early second-round pick.

Although the Pats signed Bodden and Springs, neither one is a viable long-term option because Bodden has a one-year deal (if he plays well this season, he will get a better deal elsewhere and if he doesn’t, the Pats won’t want him back) and Springs is 34 years old. Also, Hobbs is in the last year of his contract, so I think the Pats will try and get a cornerback in this year’s draft. I don’t see the Pats taking a corner at #23 because they have more pressing needs (LB in particular) and it probably would not be the best value pick. However, at #34, I think it would be a good choice because of the mix of value and need.

Butler has decent size (5’11’’), great speed (4.38 40), and athleticism (evident in his combine best 43 inch vertical jump). He has four years of experience at Connecticut and great instincts. He played well in both man and zone coverage and should be able to play both in the NFL. Although Butler did not have any interceptions last season, he did not see many balls thrown in his direction either. By comparison, he had eight interceptions in his first two seasons when teams were more likely to throw at him. He is also a solid tackler that can help in run support. He played some receiver as a senior and also returned kicks, meaning that he has the versatility the Pats like.