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Expectations of third-year Patriots players

By Connor Fulton

Nov 23, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back James White (28) scores a touchdown against Buffalo Bills free safety Corey Graham (20) during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 23, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots running back James White (28) scores a touchdown against Buffalo Bills free safety Corey Graham (20) during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Malcolm Butler Patriots
Dec 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler (21) reacts during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Malcolm Butler

2014 stats: 11 games (one start), 15 combined tackles, seven passes defended

2015 stats: 16 games (16 starts), 67 combined tackles, two interceptions, 15 passes defended

As a rookie, Butler was the story of training camp, forcing the Patriots to keep him around despite their stacked cornerback group of Darrelle Revis, Brandon Brown, Kyle Arrington and Alfonzo Dennard. Of course, Butler made his fame in Super Bowl XLIX with his goal line heroism, but his solid performance in the 2014 regular season should not be overlooked.

5 positions Patriots will address in 2016 NFL Draft

This past season, Butler was a top-five cornerback in the NFL. En route to earning a Pro Bowl nod, Butler talked the talk and walked the walk. The Patriots simply couldn’t have asked for a better performance from the sophomore pro.

2016 expectations: 16 games (16 starts), 70 combined tackles, six interceptions, 18 passes defended

As you can see, this writer has high hopes for Butler in 2016. Considering the fact he’s playing in a contract year, look for Butler to only improve in his third season. In particular, his ball hawking ability should be on full display this year.

Next: 4. Jimmy Garoppolo

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