With cornerback Malcolm Butler expected to leave, the New England Patriots could take in some big names to replace him. According to Doug Kyed of NESN.com, the Patriots could acquire either Aqib Talib of the Denver Broncos or Richard Sherman of the Seattle Seahawks. However, Kyed clarified that there are complications in dealing with these two big-name cornerbacks. Talib is under contract for two more years with the Broncos while Sherman has one year left on his deal. After creating some salary cap space, the Patriots could try to make a deal with either team.
Last season, there were persistent reports that Sherman was on the trading block, but the Seahawks held on to him. However, Sherman missed the final seven games of the season after sustaining an Achilles tear. Talib, for his part, is reportedly on the trading block this offseason, but the Broncos won’t receive much offers for the veteran cornerback because of the remaining two years and $19 million on his contract.
Butler expected to leave Patriots
Butler is expected to leave the Patriots as he becomes a free agent in the summer. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick benched Butler in Super Bowl LII due to unknown reasons. Reports surfaced that Butler was benched due to several reasons, including sickness, a rough week of practice, and a curfew-related violation.
However, Butler denied that he was benched as a disciplinary measure, clarifying that he did not break any team rules in the week heading into Super Bowl LII. Butler’s long explanation on his Twitter account was liked by several teammates, including quarterback Tom Brady. The veteran quarterback also posted a message on Butler’s tweet, saying, “Love you Malcolm!
You are an incredible teammate and player and friend. Always!”
Sherman expects to remain a Seahawk
During an interview with reporters at the 83rd Annual Seattle Sports Star of the Year banquet, Sherman maintained that he wants to be back with the Seahawks next season. The 29-year-old Sherman is in the final year of his contract with the Seahawks, who could save $11 million by cutting the former fifth-round pick.
According to Sherman, his rehab is ahead of schedule and he could be running in mid-April or early May. In nine games last season, Sherman had 35 total tackles with seven passes defended and two interceptions. Before his injury, Sherman played in every game since he was drafted by the Seahawks in 2011.
