Patriots RFA Malcolm Butler to visit New Orleans Saints
Tuesday 14 March 2017 17:00, UK
Patriots restricted free agent cornerback Malcolm Butler has scheduled a visit with the Saints at the team's headquarters on Thursday.
New Orleans coach Sean Payton confirmed the visit Wednesday, telling The Associated Press he holds Butler in high regard and is eager to meet with him.
If the Saints sign the 27-year-old Butler to an offer, New England has the option to match it. If the Patriots choose to let Butler go they would then receive the Saints' 11th overall draft pick this year in return, unless the two teams agree to an alternative deal.
Butler, a two-year starter, is best known for his late, goal-line interception of Seattle's Russell Wilson in the 2015 Super Bowl.
He intercepted four passes last season and broke up 17. He also was credited with 63 solo or assisted tackles, including a sack.
Meanwhile, Patriots unrestricted free agent linebacker Dont'a Hightower is visiting the Pittsburgh Steelers on Tuesday. He also visited the Jets earlier this week.
The 27-year-old Hightower is one of the highest-profile names left on the free agent market and the Patriots are reported to remain keen to bring back to New England.
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