4 Commanders players who must stand out at mandatory minicamp
By Jerry Trotta
3. Percy Butler
It’s tough to gauge how every player performed at OTAs, but the consensus understanding of Butler is that he was up and down.
Worse for the 2022 fourth-round pick? Darrick Forrest, one of Butler’s top competitors for the deep safety position alongside vet Bobby McCain, was arguably the Commanders’ surprise standout performer at OTAs.
That’s not to say Butler should be discouraged, but a strong mandatory minicamp would help the Louisiana Lafayette product secure a role on the defense as a rookie, as he’s already expected to be an immediate asset on special teams following Deshazor Everett’s release and with Troy Apke firmly on the roster bubble.
Additionally, Butler’s emergence at minicamp, or lack thereof, could influence the Commanders’ pursuit of a linebacker … or Landon Collins’ reunion. Expected to compete for snaps in the Buffalo nickel position, Butler could solidify a part-time role with Kam Curl and others if he flashes the goods this week.