New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler is approaching free agency once the season ends and says he “without a doubt” wants to return.
Super Bowl XLIX hero Malcolm Butler knows what it takes to be a member of the New England Patriots. Part of that is dedication to the team on and off the field.
After starting the season disgruntled due to a contract dispute with the team, Butler has given his all to the team. While it has been a foregone conclusion all season that he won’t be back in New England, the 27-year-old cornerback raised some eyebrows when he was asked if he wanted to return to the team he won two Super Bowl championships with.
"“Without a doubt,” Butler told the media on Wednesday. “Without a doubt.”"
That scenario seems unlikely after the team gave fellow cornerback and teammate Stephon Gilmore a five-year, $65 million deal. Unless Butler is willing to play for less, it is doubtful the Patriots will pay two corners at top dollar. But, they also typically never give a free agent the type of money they gave Gilmore.
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In other words, anything is possible when it comes to Bill Belichick. So all Malcolm Butler can do right now is focus on the team’s Super Bowl LII matchup with the Philadelphia Eagles.
"“I’m giving 100 percent dedication towards the team and giving them everything I’ve got,” Butler continued. “Whatever happens after this, happens. I’m just focused on Super Bowl LII.”"
Butler, who has been nursing an illness, said he is feeling better and is “ready to roll” in yet another Super Bowl appearance. With a less than stellar regular season, Butler really needs to perform at a high level to show his worth, not only to the Patriots, but other teams around the league.
While returning to the New England Patriots is his preference, he knows it is a business. To turn the $3.91 million he played for this season into something long term and close to that of Gilmore, he has to perform like a top corner and make champion type plays when it matter.
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Kind of like the play he made as an unknown rookie in Super Bowl XLIX.