New England Patriots: Signing Stephon Gilmore Makes Malcolm Butler Expendable
By Mark Ogle
The New England Patriots have recently signed cornerback Stephon Gilmore, what does that mean for Malcolm Butler?
In February of 2015, Malcolm Butler stole the hearts of all New England Patriots fans. An undrafted, no-name rookie, Butler shined under the brightest lights and made the game-winning interception in Super Bowl XLIX. Now, it appears as though the budding star’s future in New England could be coming to an end.
On Thursday morning the Patriots made an unexpected free agency splash. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the 26-year-old Gilmore is expected to sign a five-year deal with New England.
Patriots are giving former Bills CB Stephon Gilmore a five-year, $65 million deal that includes $40 million guaranteed, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2017
Gilmore was the tenth overall selection in the 2012 draft and is coming off of his first Pro Bowl selection. The news came as a surprise to most, as New England is typically not a heavy hitter early in free agency. It was also a surprise because Malcolm Butler and Logan Ryan, the Patriots’ top two cornerbacks from a season ago, are both seeking long-term deals.
Before fans had time to react, trade rumors were already floating in. Dianna Russini of ESPN broke the news this morning that the Patriots were discussing a deal with the New Orleans Saints involving Malcolm Butler and wide receiver Brandin Cooks.
The New England Patriots are considering trading Malcolm Butler to the New Orleans Saints for Brandin Cooks per sources
— Dianna Russini 🏈 (@diannaESPN) March 9, 2017
Earlier in the week, New England decided to put a first round tender on Butler. The tender means that they have the right to match any free agent offer made to Malcolm. If they choose not to match, Butler walks and the Patriots receive a first round pick as compensation.
Prior to the Gilmore news, one would figure that the Patriots would likely continue to work on extension talks with Butler. Even if those talks continued to make little progress, the team had the safety net of the first round tender and would hopefully match any non-ridiculous offer. However, the impending signing of Gilmore makes Butler more expendable.
Next: 5 Reasons Why Pats Can Repeat as Champs
All of the speculation should be coming to a head soon as the Patriots are off to a shockingly active start this offseason.