Patriots Gridiron News: Malcolm Butler Praised for His Instincts

New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler didn’t have the greatest game against the Jets, but was praised for his instincts.

Malcolm Butler didn’t have the greatest of games, but the New England Patriots cornerback still found ways to contribute to the defense in positive ways. Speaking to the Media Monday, head coach Bill Belichick praised Butler’s instincts and awareness.

With the team down 10-3 in the second quarter, Butler was beat on a pass from Ryan Fitzpatrick to Robbie Anderson. In a play that ended up going for 25 yards, Butler refused to give up. He not only tracked down Anderson, he punched the ball loose creating a long overdue turnover for the defense. It was a play great players make, especially when they have given up a few plays.

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"“Great awareness play by Malcolm to be able to quickly get his hand in there and literally punch the ball out while it was just a little bit away from Anderson’s body,” Belichick said via MassLive.com. “So a very instinctive play with a very quick reaction by Malcolm to take advantage of a brief opportunity.”"

Butler’s play was one of a few plays made by the defense that helped change the direction of the game. The third-year cornerback proclaimed that the team is close to becoming the defense they know they can be.

As for his own play on the field, Malcolm Butler thought it was a difficult day for him giving up the two touchdown receptions, but will use the negative plays as a motivator towards continue improvement.

"“Yeah, my standards are very high so I’d say so,” Butler said. “I don’t want to give up touchdowns or long balls but hey, it’s going to happen. The biggest thing is we got the win. So, just got to learn from it, be pissed off about it and put it into next week. That’s all I can do.”"

Jamie Collins: It appears former linebacker Jamie Collins still has a sour taste in his mouth almost weeks after the shocking trade sending him to Cleveland.

On Monday, Collins posted a meme on Instagram that could be interpreted as a shot towards his former team. The Post read:

"“I may not be where I need to be, but thank God I’m not where I used to be.”"

Darius Kilgo: The Patriots added some defensive tackle depth Monday. According to WEEI, the team claimed defensive tackle Darius Kilgo off waivers. To make room for Kilgo, New England released running back DJ Foster.

Kilgo, a 2015 sixth-round pick of the Denver Broncos, has appeared in 18 games over the past two seasons. He should provide some depth behind Malcom Brown, Vincent Valentine and Woodrow Hamilton should Alan Branch serve his four-game suspension.

Next: Boston Bruins Morning Thoughts: Ryan Spooner Determined To Succeed

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