Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsThursday, July 9, 2026
SBNation.com homepageSB NationSB Nation logo

Scouting report: Darius Butler

by Dan Kadar

Darius Butler

5’10, 187 pounds | Connecticut | Cornerback

Strengths: An extremely confident player, Butler is an adept zone-coverage cornerback, a scheme Connecticut ran on most passing downs in 2008. Closes very quickly on passes in front of him. Displays excellent body control to break in front of receivers to make a play on the ball. Good hands. Willing to support against the run.

Weaknesses: Could get stronger to play bump-and-run coverage better. Struggles some in run coverage because his lack of size. Doesn’t have blazing speed and has trouble catching up when he gets beaten. Not much of a tackler and prefers to drag down ball carriers.

Final word: Butler’s ability really came to the forefront during his junior season when he often outshone Raiders fourth-round pick Tyvon Branch. A cocky player who relishes the big play. Due to speed issues, Butler may not necessarily be a true No. 1, lockdown cornerback, but he’ll make some team very happy.

Round projection: 2

See More:

More in Mocking the Draft

Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenchesSB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenches
Mocking the Draft

This player should be a plug-and-play replacement for Mekhi Becton right off the bat.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31
Mocking the Draft

This guy’s got talent, plus playing with Patrick Mahomes automatically elevates his potential.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30
Mocking the Draft

He’s a bit of a liability in the run game, but his potential in the pass game was enough for Buffalo Rumblings.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pickSB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pick
Mocking the Draft

This pick could help the Commanders build on last year’s excellent season.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan HutchinsonSB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan Hutchinson
Mocking the Draft

It’s a high-potential pick for a Detroit defense that needs a solid pass rusher.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26
Mocking the Draft

This rookie would be a great complement to Jared Verse and Byron Young.

By Michael Peterson

The Latest