Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Brad Butler (Virginia) - 2006 NFL Draft Pick #143 by BUF

---

Pre-Draft Analysis: Brad Butler

Position: Offensive Tackle
College: University of Virginia
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 300 lbs

Overview

Brad Butler was a highly regarded offensive tackle coming out of the University of Virginia, known for his versatility and solid performance in college. He was recognized for his ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes for ball carriers.

Strengths

• Size & Length: Butler possessed an ideal frame for an NFL tackle, with a tall and long body that allowed him to effectively engage with defenders.
• Footwork: He demonstrated good footwork in pass protection, which helped him maintain balance and leverage against speed rushers.
• Versatility: Butler had experience playing both tackle positions, which increased his value as a draft prospect.
• Football IQ: His understanding of defensive schemes and ability to identify blitzes made him a reliable player on the offensive line.

Areas for Improvement

• Strength: While he had good size, there were concerns about his overall strength and ability to handle powerful defensive linemen.
• Consistency: Butler needed to improve his consistency in technique, particularly in maintaining proper hand placement and staying low in his stance.
• Injury History: Any previous injuries could raise red flags for NFL teams looking for durability in their linemen.

Draft Projection

Brad Butler was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 2006 NFL Draft. His combination of size, skill, and positional flexibility made him an appealing candidate for teams looking to bolster their offensive line depth.

Conclusion

Butler was viewed as a promising prospect who could develop into a solid contributor at the NFL level with the right coaching and development. Teams valued his experience and potential, making him a player to watch during the draft process.