New England Patriots NFL Trade Rumors: Malcolm Butler 'Extremely Frustrated' With Patriots, Wants to Leave
A lot of football fans probably thought the New England Patriots were shipping Malcolm Butler to the New Orleans Saints for Brandin Cooks last week. But once the trade was announced, Butler's name was conspicuously missing. Instead, the Patriots sent their first-round draft pick (32nd overall) and a third-round pick to the Saints in exchange for Cooks and a fourth-round pick.
Of course, the reason why Butler wasn't included in the Cooks deal was the fact that he has yet to sign his restricted free agency tender. He wasn't traded to the Saints last week, but he might still leave the team.
According to Michael Giardi of CSN New England, Butler is "extremely frustrated" with the Patriots and their decision to sign cornerback Stephon Gilmore. Giardi also said Butler wants to leave and he's "courting offers elsewhere."
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Well, it seems the Patriots have been trying to get rid of him, so he probably doesn't feel welcome right now. CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora has also reported that Butler's agent has been contacting teams to see if anyone is interested in acquiring the cornerback. But there's one caveat for interested teams. They will have to give up a first-round pick to sign him since he's a restricted free agent with a first-round tender.
According to La Canfora, the Patriots are fine with the idea of Butler signing with another team since it will give them a first-round pick.
Butler could always sign the tender and let the Patriots trade him. ESPN's Adam Schefter has noted that the team was still considering moving him. However, Butler probably wouldn't do that unless he's really desperate. If he signs, his agent would no longer be allowed to negotiate with teams and his salary for the season would be significantly lower than his asking price.
Apparently, Butler wants to be paid around $13 million to $14 million annually. Unfortunately, the Patriots are not going to give him that much especially after signing Gilmore to a five-year, $65 million deal.
Butler wants to get paid, but he's not going to get what he wants with the Patriots. Is there a team out there willing to give up a first-round pick to sign him?
