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Packers 2016 Draft: Ranking top 10 first round options

By Freddie Boston

Oct 17, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field. The Crimson Tide defeated the Aggies 41-23. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reggie Ragland (19) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field. The Crimson Tide defeated the Aggies 41-23. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 27, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana Tech defensive lineman Vernon Butler speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 27, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana Tech defensive lineman Vernon Butler speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

4. DT Vernon Butler, Louisiana Tech

What he would bring to Green Bay: Butler offers versatility in a three-man front. He can line up anywhere from nose tackle to five-technique end. His immediate upgrade would come against the run, but Butler has also given flashes of his pass-rush potential.

Butler’s athleticism and motor makes him a good option for the Pack at No. 27, and the depth at the position in this year’s class could drop him all the way to the bottom of the first round.

Why the pick would make sense: The Packers need a defensive lineman in a big way. Unlike Jarran Reed, Butler offers some potential as a pass rusher which could keep him on the field for all three downs.

Like Reed, though, Butler can help in run defense as a rookie and give the Packers another talented big guy to pair up with Letroy Guion and Mike Daniels. Adding in Butler could give the line the boost it needs, and when Mike Pennel returns from suspension it could have the talent and depth to help the defense reach the next level.

If Butler falls to No. 27, he could easily be atop of the Packers’ board.

Next: No. 3

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