New England Patriots Players to Watch

FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 24: Brandin Cooks
FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 24: Brandin Cooks
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HOUSTON, TX – FEBRUARY 05: Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons carries the ball with pressure from Malcolm Butler #21 of the New England Patriots during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX – FEBRUARY 05: Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons carries the ball with pressure from Malcolm Butler #21 of the New England Patriots during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Cornerback Malcolm Butler

While the Patriots defense has been putrid Malcolm Butler has been one of the few bright spots. He will be going to go against Mike Evans one of the best receivers he’ll face this year. While the Patriots splurged on Stephon Gilmore he has been less than stellar for Matt Patricia and the defense. Gilmore will likely have to cover DeSean Jackson with safety help over the top because of his speed leaving Butler one on one with Evans. Mike Evans has a six-inch height advantage over Butler but he has that over everybody.

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Most famous for his interception against Seattle in the Super Bowl, Butler has made a name for himself. He signed a one-year $3.9 million deal this offseason to stay in New England but he’s definitely going to be looking for Gilmore money after this season with the way he’s playing. He’s been the best player on the Patriots defense and will have to be game planned around on Thursday Night.

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