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Photo of Deon Butler
Grade
?
  • 4.38 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 12 REPS
    Top Performer
  • 34.5 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 118.0 INCH
    Top Performer
  • 7.01 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 11.32 SEC
    Top Performer
  • 5'10" Height
  • 182LBS. Weight

Overview

Butler is another of the Penn State senior receivers who have contributed since arriving at Happy Valley. Butler led the team with 47 receptions for 810 yards and seven touchdowns in 2008, becoming the big-play receiver for QB Daryll Clark and being named second-team All-Big Ten by the media. The four-year starter averaged 44 catches for 654 yards and five scores entering the season, so his senior year was no accident. Butler's lack of size concerns scouts a bit, but teams will be knocking on his door if he goes undrafted. Had an arm span of 31 inches and a hand span of 9 1/4 inches at the combine.

Analysis

Strengths

Positives: Wiry strong receiver with long arms. Reliable hands; uses his hands outside his frame even when challenged and high-points the ball. Has the initial quickness off the snap to get into his route. Good vision, elusiveness and stop-start acceleration in space. Able to run through cornerback tackles to extend the play. Set up corners well for out-routes, pressing them inside and using his arm and quickness to separate. Negatives: Short, lean receiver who is knocked off his routes by larger corners. Will struggle to get off the jam. Makes the effort blocking on the outside but lacks the strength to sustain. Questionable value as a deep threat against man coverage; will be best in the slot.
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Grade Title Draft (Round) Description
96-100 Future Hall of Famer Top Pick A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played
85-95 Immediate Starter 1st An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).
70-84 Eventual Starter 2nd-3rd A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.
50-69 Draftable Player 4th-7th A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.
20-49 Free Agent UDFA A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.
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