When the Carolina Panthers agreed to terms with defensive tackle Dontari Poe, they erased any chance of Vernon Butler starting this season. Butler, a first round draft pick, is now heading into his third season in the NFL as a backup. That doesn’t exactly scream “utilization of talent” now, does it?

It would be one thing if the Carolina Panthers were a Superbowl caliber team without any glaring needs. But as of today, they are not. The Panthers have huge holes on both sides of the ball. All while hanging on to a starting caliber defensive tackle with three more inexpensive seasons left on his contract. That sounds like something other teams may be interested in, doesn’t it?

Trading Butler would not only be in the best interest of the Carolina Panthers, but also Butler himself. Not allowing a player of his caliber to flourish doesn’t exactly do Butler any favors. On a team with needs at defensive tackle, Butler would have a chance to work towards a sizeable extension, getting out from under that rookie contract. This won’t happen in Carolina.

Yes, having Vernon Butler in rotation with KK Short and Dontari Poe is a big advantage. But at what cost? Surely it is not advantageous to have big upgrades to an engine when you are missing a rear tire?

Therefore, I am suggesting the Panthers trade Butler in exchange for a starting caliber guard, safety, defensive end, or wide receiver. Any player at those positions would see more playing time and contribute immediately. Not to mention giving Marty Hurney more flexibility in the upcoming draft, allowing him to focus more on the best player available regardless of position.

In the words of the great Michael Scott, this is a win-win-win.