Tennessee Football: Projecting where Vols will land in 2022 NFL draft
By Kathryn Rose
Player Profile. Tennessee. Matthew Butler. 154. player. 54. Pick Analysis. DT
Four-down teams are a dying breed in the NFL. The opening up of offenses over the last decade has meant that defenses are trying to get more speed on the field. Thus, three down linemen as a base scheme have become a need, rather than a preference.
The Eagles, however, still are one of the few to run a four-down scheme. Indeed, Fletcher Cox and Javon Hargrave have manned the Eagles defensive interior for the last two seasons. But, with Cox likely gone after 2022, they need someone to keep behind in development for a year.
Matthew Butler figures to be a great candidate, then. The 3-technique defensive tackle was one of the reasons the Vols defense turned out okay last year. His strength and athleticism could clog running lanes, as well as make a guard or center’s life a nightmare.
While there are concerns about his overall length and his lack of balance, he should end up being a great rotation piece in the NFL.