Rumors: Veteran DB Darius Butler Visiting Washington Redskins

The Washington Redskins are in need of some depth in their secondary. They could use a player like Darius Butler to help them out.

Last season, the Washington Redskins lacked quality depth in their secondary. Outside of Josh Norman, most of their defensive backs struggled with inconsistency, especially at the cornerback position. Bashaud Breeland had his worst season as a pro while third rounder Kendall Fuller had issues with consistency. Quinton Dunbar flashed at times, but they still need to find some veteran depth to improve their overall unit. Darius Butler is a player that could help them out.

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According to Jason La Canfora of CBS, the Redskins are bringing in Butler for a visit on Thursday. However, they are not the only suitor for the cornerback:

Veteran DB Darius Butler has another round of visits scheduled, starting with Washington today. Colts want him back. Visited CHI already
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 16, 2017

Despite the potential competition, the Redskins should give it their all to add Butler. He could be a quality addition that would perfectly address the needs they have in the secondary.

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Butler was a former second round draft pick of the New England Patriots who never really hit his stride until he got to Indianapolis. Functioning in several different roles with the team including No. 2 cornerback, nickel back, and safety, Butler has had success as a five year member of the Colts. Last year was one of his best seasons, as he snagged three interceptions and looked very capable in coverage. It makes sense that the Colts would want to keep him, but they will definitely have some stiff competition.

For the Redskins, Butler could be the main nickel back for the team and allow Fuller some extra time to develop. He should be able to hold down that position, thanks to his ballhawking prowess, and in the event that Breeland continues to struggle, he could lock down the No. 2 position. His versatility will also be attractive to the team, as they could use Butler at safety in the event that injuries pile up like they did in 2016.

Of course, there are some concerns with signing Butler. He is turning 31 on Saturday, so there is a chance that he could decline at any point. He should have a couple of good seasons left, but as the Redskins learned with Greg Toler last year, older cornerbacks sometimes just lose their speed and get torched. Still, that should not stop the Redskins from trying to sign Butler.

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If the Redskins can ink Butler to a short term deal that pays $3-$5 million, then adding him would be a good move. He could be a real weapon for the team, and should be a good short term fix for their cornerback problems.

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