Cardinals Release CB Malcom Butler

The Arizona Cardinals have released cornerback Malcolm Butler from the reserve/retired list.

On Thursday, the Arizona Cardinals released cornerback Malcolm Butler from their reserve/retired list. He did not play any games for the team in 2021 after signing a one-year contract with the Cardinals on March 25 of last year. 

Butler, who was expected to help fill the void left by franchise cornerback Patrick Peterson, was placed on the retired list Aug. 31, only 12 days before the start of the regular season. Butler practiced with the team all through training camp and was expected to see regular playing time in Arizona's secondary. 

Butler's absence last season led to the emergence of rookie cornerback Marco Wilson, who played considerably well and often was Arizona's best corner. 

Butler reportedly was dealing with personal issues when he was considering retirement before the beginning of the season. 

Now, Butler (who is about to turn 32-years-old) apparently is hoping to again step on the field.

Butler has been working out diligently. Would expect a return. https://t.co/NhvGTl3PSQ

— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) February 17, 2022

Butler entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 2014, earning a spot on the New England Patriots' roster his rookie season and making the biggest play of his career with a game-sealing interception in Super Bowl XLIX. 

Butler went on to earn a five-year, $61 million contract with the Tennessee Titans, playing three seasons with the team before being released on March 10, 2021. 

Butler was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2015 and was named a second-team All-Pro in 2016. Butler has 17 career interceptions. 

The Cardinals are expected to pursue a cornerback in either free agency or the upcoming draft.