Malcolm Butler

Patriots CB Malcolm Butler explains why he skipped OTAs

Published Jun. 7, 2016 6:00 p.m. ET

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Andrew Lynch

When Malcolm Butler missed the first of the New England Patriots' OTAs at the end of May, it seemed as if there was an easy answer as to why.

Butler, who famously made the game-saving interception that helped the Patriots win Super Bowl XLIX, is slated to make just $600,000 in 2016, and he reportedly is looking for a raise. But on New England's first day of mandatory practices on Tuesday, Butler told reporters that his absence wasn't about the money:

Well then. That's ... perfectly vague, we suppose. And that's Butler's prerogative. After all, the team activities in question weren't mandatory -- even though we basically treat them as such.

Still, it's a little bit suspicious that "something like" a family issue would arise for Butler the same week that his team resumed football activities. Juuuuust a little bit. With that said, we hope everyone in the extended Butler family is happy and healthy.

The Patriots cornerback is entering his third season in the NFL having tallied 74 total tackles, 22 passes defended and two interceptions in the regular season, as well as that one Super Bowl interception. If he and the Patriots are unable to work something out, he'll be a restricted free agent headed into 2017. Earlier this year, Butler explained how he was able to read the Seahawks' offense on that decisive play:

Sounds like practice is pretty important after all.

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Malcolm Butler

New England Patriots

National Football League