Butler plays defense on social media

Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler yesterday issued his side of the story surrounding his Super Bowl benching.

Butler fired back at a host of unsubstantiated rumors, stating on Instagram that he never “missed curfew or any of the ridiculous activities being reported.” Bill Belichick said Butler’s benching wasn’t for disciplinary reasons after the Pats’ 41-33 loss to the Eagles.

For further context, a source said Butler spent the week in Minneapolis with his mother, girlfriend and son.

“During my four-year career with the Patriots, I have always given it everything I have to play at a high level, and would never do anything to hurt my team’s chances of winning a game, including this year’s Super Bowl where I visited with my family every night,” Butler wrote.

Butler added that he never attended a concert last week.

“(The rumors) are not only false, but hurtful to me and my family,” he wrote. “Although I wish I could have contributed more to help my team win, I have to get ready for the next opportunity. Moving forward, I will do what I have always done to work hard and prepare for next season to be the best I can be on and off the field.”

Butler thanked Robert Kraft and his family, Belichick, teammates and others for the opportunity to play for the Patriots. He also apologized for swearing during a postgame comment to ESPN.

Tom Brady responded to Butler’s post, “Love you, Malcolm. You are an incredible player and teammate and friend. Always !!!!!! ”

Butler’s teammates told the Herald this week Belichick didn’t explain why the corner was benched, nor did they understand the logic behind the decision. They were angry Butler was out because they didn’t believe they fielded the team that gave them the best chance to win Super Bowl LII.