Paying the Butler

The Pats have proven over the years that they will not let one player's contract hold them hostage. We have seen the departure of valued veterans who no longer fit under their salary cap.

CB Malcolm Butler has skipped the recent OTA's to try to shine some light on his request for some type of tweak to his contract. He doesn't hold much leverage with the team because of his service time. They have him for $600,000 this season, but he is a restricted free agent after the end of the season.

Will they try to renegotiate the contract of the 2015 Pro Bowl selectee? Butler was signed in 2014 as an undrafted player. Do they feel they can find another player like him? Cornerbacks command a high salary in the free agent market. Are they willing to pay him or let him test the waters next year?

I'm sure they will do what they feel is best for the team.