FOXBORO, Mass. — Malcolm Butler and Darrelle Revis won’t share the field Sunday, but the New England Patriots-New York Jets matchup will serve as protégé vs. mentor.
Revis manned the Patriots’ No. 1 cornerback spot last year before signing with the Jets over the offseason. Butler, who spent a season learning from Revis while suiting up in just 11 games as a rookie, now has taken over that role.
“You can learn from Darrelle in any way,” Butler said Tuesday. “One of the greatest guys in the game. I’ve just been playing how I play, taking what I learn — not just from Darrelle Revis but from anybody — and just apply it on the field.”
Butler was asked how Revis taught the young cornerback how to be a pro.
“Film study,” Butler said. “Film study. Going out there, not panicking, and having confidence.”
Butler has allowed 18 catches on 32 targets for 329 yards with four touchdowns, an interception and seven pass breakups this season. He’s appeared to improve in every matchup and nearly came away with three interceptions Sunday night against the Indianapolis Colts. He’ll face off against Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, who has thrown 13 touchdowns and 17 interceptions in seven career games against the Patriots.
Thumbnail photo via David Butler II/USA TODAY Sports
