The New England Patriots established one of the most successful dynasties in NFL history, securing six Super Bowl victories. They only missed the playoffs three times from 2001 to 2021. Throughout this remarkable era, they appeared in the AFC Championship game 13 times and reached two additional Super Bowls, notably against the New York Giants.
Cornerback Malcom Butler played a pivotal role in two of these Super Bowl wins and is renowned for one of the most memorable plays in NFL history.
Following a flawless (16-0) season in 2007, the Patriots came agonizingly close to securing another Lombardi Trophy. However, a memorable helmet catch by David Tyree in the last seconds of the game, courtesy of Eli Manning, positioned the Giants to kick a game-winning field goal, resulting in New York narrowly edging out a 17-14 victory.
In 2011, the Patriots had an opportunity for redemption, but once again, they were defeated by the Giants, this time with a score of 21-17.
Despite enduring a few heartbreaking losses, it’s nearly incomprehensible to grasp the level of success achieved by Bill Belichick, Tom Brady, and the New England Patriots over a 20-year span.
While there are numerous memorable moments throughout their journey, one of the most iconic instances that secured a Super Bowl for New England occurred during the last-minute victory over the Seattle Seahawks to conclude the 2014 season.
Regarded as the 10th greatest play in NFL history, this improbable Super Bowl win unfolded at the University of Phoenix Stadium on the first day of February in 2015.
The Seattle Seahawks found themselves on the brink of clinching a second consecutive NFL title. In Super Bowl XLIX, they trailed the Patriots 28-24 with just 26 seconds remaining, yet they possessed the ball on a second-and-goal from the New England 1-yard line.
From the shotgun formation, Seattle’s quarterback, Russell Wilson, received the snap and swiftly delivered a quick slant pass to wide receiver Ricardo Lockette, who appeared open at first. However, New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler, an undrafted rookie from West Alabama, anticipated the play and arrived at Lockette simultaneously with the ball.
With lightning-fast reflexes, Butler intercepted the ball at the goal line, securing the interception and effectively sealing the Super Bowl victory for the Patriots, marking their fourth title in franchise history.
Butler later explained, “I noticed Russell Wilson kept glancing over to my side, so I anticipated something was happening. That’s when I decided to anticipate the route and make the play.”
Tom Brady continues to regard the iconic play as one of the most significant moments in Super Bowl history, a testament to its impact.
Former New England Patriots standout Malcolm Butler declares his retirement from the NFL.
On Saturday, Butler recognized that the time had come. At 34 years old, having previously retired three years ago, the former New England Patriots Super Bowl hero and undrafted cornerback, as well as Pro Bowl selection, has decided to permanently step away from the game.
“I am retired,” Butler confirmed to KPRC 2 during an interview following an NFL panel discussion at Dick’s Sporting Goods. “I gave it my all. Walking away from the game feeling content. Everyone can always do more, but I’m content with my career. It’s time to embrace change and move forward.”
Malcolm Butler’s last NFL appearance was in 2022 when he came out of retirement to sign a two-year contract with the Patriots.
However, he was released after being placed on injured reserve. Later that year, Butler had a workout with the Miami Dolphins. In the following year, he also had a workout with the Atlanta Falcons but did not secure a signing. Previously, Butler had visited the Texans but was not signed by general manager Nick Caserio.
Currently residing in the suburbs of Houston, Malcolm Butler is keeping occupied with his real estate investments. Additionally, he expressed an interest in writing movie scripts and potentially pursuing stand-up comedy.
“I have a lot of options,” Butler remarked. “I aim to stay active and engaged.”
Butler intends to write a book next year chronicling his journey from being an undrafted rookie out of West Alabama to intercepting Russell Wilson in the final seconds of Super Bowl XLIX, securing a victory for the New England Patriots over the Seattle Seahawks in what is considered one of the greatest plays in NFL history.
Reflecting on his time with the Patriots, Butler remarked, “It was incredible to play alongside Tom Brady and so many other great players, winning numerous games and making it to three Super Bowls in my first four years.
” As the proud owner of two Super Bowl rings, he added, “Many players never even come close to experiencing a Super Bowl. I feel truly blessed to have played alongside such outstanding teammates and for the Kraft family, who are genuinely good people.”
Malcolm Butler also had a stint with the Tennessee Titans after signing a lucrative five-year, $61 million contract. Throughout his career, he amassed 406 tackles, 17 interceptions, three sacks, and five forced fumbles, including two interceptions in the postseason.
However, Butler was involved in a controversial incident during Super Bowl LII, where then-New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick made the decision not to utilize him in any defensive snaps. Butler only played one play on special teams during the game.
Following the Super Bowl loss, Belichick stated that Butler’s absence was purely a “coach’s decision” and not due to disciplinary reasons. Nevertheless, this decision was widely criticized within the Patriots’ locker room after their 41-33 defeat. Butler expressed his confusion at the time, stating, “I don’t know what it was. I guess I wasn’t playing good or they didn’t feel comfortable. I don’t know, but I could have changed the game.”
