Malcolm Butler won’t start the 2022 NFL season with the New England Patriots, but he could still find his way onto a team at some point over the next few months.
The Patriots released the veteran cornerback from injured reserve with an injury settlement Thursday. This means he’s a free agent able to sign with any team.
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ESPN’s Field Yates reported another update on the situation, tweeting Friday that Butler’s settlement is for about six regular season weeks.
Salary cap expert Miguel Benzan noted that it is still possible for Butler to return to New England later in the season.
The Athletic’s Jeff Howe reported Thursday that Butler suffered a hip injury in the Patriot’s preseason opener against the New York Giants a couple of weeks ago. He did not practice after that game and was placed on injured reserve Aug. 16.
Butler came out of retirement to join the Patriots in March. It’s not known whether he’ll choose to prolong his pro career or retire again.