Buffalo Bills: Grading the addition of defensive tackle Vernon Butler

BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 11: Vernon Butler #92 of the Carolina Panthers looks on during a preseason NFL game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on August 11, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. The Ravens defeated the Panthers 22-19. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - AUGUST 11: Vernon Butler #92 of the Carolina Panthers looks on during a preseason NFL game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on August 11, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. The Ravens defeated the Panthers 22-19. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
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NASHVILLE, TN – AUGUST 20: Vernon Butler #92 of the Carolina Panthers is blocked by Jeremiah Poutasi #73 of the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium on August 20, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN – AUGUST 20: Vernon Butler #92 of the Carolina Panthers is blocked by Jeremiah Poutasi #73 of the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium on August 20, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)

Team Need

The defensive tackle position wasn’t one of the more pressing needs entering the offseason, unlike say wide receiver, defensive end or even cornerback. The Bills have solid depth at the position even with the departure of Jordan Phillips.

The Bills at the top of the depth chart have last year’s first round pick Ed Oliver, along with Star Lotulelei and the returning Harrison Phillips.

However, the addition of Vernon Butler addresses the need perfectly. The Bills will now have another defensive tackle, who has starting experience and can be another pass rusher from the interior to give Oliver breaks.

Grade: B+

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