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) /

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ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 08: Vernon Butler #92 of the Carolina Panthers reacts after a sack in the first half on an NFL game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 8, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /

Contract

Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle provides the details of the contract which is a two-year deal worth $15 million, with $9.3 million in guarantees. According to Spotrac, this makes Butler the 24th highest paid defensive tackle in the league in terms of average salary and about $1.3 million higher than Star Lotulelei.

Vernon Butler (Bills), two years, $15M, $9.3M gtd, $2M signing bonus; $2.8M (gtd), $5.5M ($1.5M gtd inj at signing; $3M 5th day 2020 year roster bonus, $1M fifth day 2022 roster bonus, 2020-21 $750K sack incentive, $1.5M sacks base escalator 2021
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 18, 2020

While this seems like a lot for a player who will likely be a backup at the position, the way the contract is structured is smart and makes it more appealing. If Butler struggles, the Bills can elect to cut him after this season and it would result in only $1 million in dead cap.

By taking that into account and even though Butler has a significant salary this year this is still a good deal for Buffalo.

Grade: B+

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