The New England Patriots are expected to place a second-round tender on defensive tackle Adam Butler, according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss.
Butler joined the Patriots in 2017 as an undrafted free agent, so he’s hitting restricted free agency this offseason — beginning March 18. If the Patriots were to place a low round tender on him, they would get no compensation if he signed with another team. With the second-round tender; If another team signs him to an offer sheet, the Patriots would have five days to match the offer or they would receive a second-round pick. This would bring a one-year deal that’s worth $3.1 million.
Bringing back Butler would provide some assurance on a defensive line that’s falling apart. The Patriots’ only essential player that’s on contract still is Lawrence Guy, with Danny Shelton hitting free agency. Last season, the defense’s biggest struggle was in the trenches — so more work will be necessary to solidify this group.
Butler recorded six sacks, a quarterback hit, five passes deflected, eight tackles for loss, 17 hurries and 26 tackles. He was a rotational player last season who showed consistent growth.
