The NFL has fined Panthers defensive tackle Vernon Butler twice for his behavior last week in Indianapolis. According to Joe Person at the Athletic, Butler was fined $10,527 for punching Colts tight end Jack Doyle and another $14,037 for flipping off the fans. That comes out to $24,564.
Butler gave a sort-of apology after the game, claiming he had actually meant to hit guard Mark Glowinski instead, which is certainly an interesting defense.
A first-round pick by former general manager Dave Gettleman in 2016, this latest incident is true to the trend. Butler has fallen short of expectations during his time with the Panthers and it can’t all be attributed to playing behind some supremely talented defensive tackles.
In 51 career games with Carolina, he’s totaled eight sacks, three forced fumbles and 18 quarterback hits. Most of those numbers have been posted this season, though. One solid year may not be enough to justify giving him a long-term contract extension.
In addition to questions about his on-field production, Butler has been problematic off of it. In July of 2018, he was cited for a misdemeanor assault in Dallas. The accuser says Butler threw a drink in her face and then pushed her down a flight of stairs.
Despite the concerns, Butler would likely sign a respectable deal if he were to hit the open market. Whether or not he stays in Charlotte will depend largely on what the next coach and assistant GM decide.
