4 Daron Payne replacements Commanders could target after first round

LUBBOCK, TEXAS - OCTOBER 31: Defensive lineman Perrion Winfrey #8 of the Oklahoma Sooners signals after the Sooners recovered a fumble during the first half of the college football game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Jones AT&T Stadium on October 31, 2020 in Lubbock, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images) /

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3. Matthew Butler, Tennessee

Another locker room presence who leads by example both on and off the gridiron, Butler was granted an extra year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic and returned to Tennessee for another season in 2021.

In 13 games, Butler boosted his draft stock by posting career-highs with 47 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. At 6-foot-4 and 295 pounds, the former Volunteer has the strength and athleticism to fill a one- or two-gap role.

If the Commanders watched Butler’s college film, they took notice that his most impressive performance came against Alabama. Given the Crimson Tide are a breeding ground for future franchise offensive linemen, that should give a solid perspective about how Butler’s game will transition to the NFL.

Butler doesn’t have great length, but he played every spot on the defensive line for Tennessee and could become a future starter as a three- or five-technique player. Another rusher who boasts strong body control and lateral quickness, Butler would be a great get for Washington in the fourth round.

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