(Editor's Note: Throughout the off-season, DallasCowboys.com staff writers will take a closer look at the roster, analyzing players' impact last season and how each fits into the team's 2016 plans. Today's Roster Rundown entry features wide receiver Brice Butler.)
Name:Brice Butler
Position:Wide Receiver
Height/Weight: 6-3 / 215
Experience: 4 seasons
College: San Diego State
Key stat:In seven appearances, Butler had six of the Cowboys' 40 receiving plays of 20 yards or more this past season, including four in the final two games.
Contract Status:Signed through 2016.
2015 Impact:Was brought to the squad through a trade with the Oakland Raiders. Physically is how the idea receiver should look. Outstanding measurables. Plays to his timed speed. Is able to get vertical separation quickly. Puts pressure on the cornerback with his ability cover ground. Can eat up cushion in a flash. Shows body control and balance while in route. Is able to sink his hips and make cuts but his height limits his ability to make them quickly. Is not going to explode like a shorter guy. Routes are consistent in the way that he runs them. Not much variation. Shows natural hands and the ability to catch them. Can make the extended catch. Had the chance to make some big plays when it came to his run after the catch. Felt like there were some plays when he could have finished better. Surprised that he didn't use his size to help him. Could have shown more physical toughness. Hamstring injury set him back during the season. Team could have used his playmaking ability while Dez Bryant was dealing with his injury.
Where He Fits:No question about his talent or ability which is the reason why the front office traded for him. Only question is can he stay healthy enough to make the contributions on a weekly basis? Like Terrance Williams showed in the final game against the Washington Redskins, that is more of the type of player that he can be. Could easily become a solid No. 2 or 3 receiver for this offense.
Writers' Analysis:
Rob Phillips:Ironic and unfortunate for Butler that his longest catch of the season (67 yards vs. the Saints in Week 4) was the same play he injured his hamstring and spent eight of the next nine games on the sideline. Healthy for the final three games, including two with Dez Bryant inactive, Butler posted nine of his season-total 12 catches for 150 yards (16.7 average). The Cowboys need receivers who can stretch the field, and Butler has the skill set to be a bigger factor in the offense next season.
