BLOOMINGTON, Minn. -- Malcolm Butler will be an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career this offseason.
Speaking about it for the first time in quite some time on Wednesday, Butler said he would like to return to New England.
"Without a doubt," he said to reporters. "Without a doubt." Butler made $3.91 million this season as a restricted free agent. He was said to be looking for a big deal like the five-year, $65 million deal Stephon Gilmore got. If that is indeed the case, it seems extremely unlikely Butler would be able to since the Patriots would not be able to give that much money to two players at the same position.
"I'm giving 100 percent dedication towards the team and giving them everything I've got," he said. "Whatever happens after this, happens. I'm just focused on Super Bowl LII."
The cornerback didn't speak at Opening Night because he had the flu. He actually wasn't even in Minnesota, as he traveled on his own Tuesday.
"It was kind of tough," he said. "I'd never been through that situation before. I'd always been here with my team. It was kind of tough. I felt like I was missing out. But I was just doing what was best for me and best for the team to get healthy."
The 27-year-old was limited in practice on Wednesday, but fully expects to play in the game.
"I'm feeling pretty good," he said. "I don't think they would have me around if I wasn't feeling good. I wouldn't want to get anyone on the team sick. So I'm feeling pretty good, thanks to the great training staff that we have. I'm ready to roll."
