When the Arizona Cardinals take on the Tennessee Titans this coming Sunday in Week 1, it was originally going to be a reunion for cornerback Malcolm Butler, who spent the last three seasons playing for the Titans.
However, his sudden retirement changes that.
The initial report was that he was dealing with a personal situation. It has been speculated that perhaps it was related to his role on the team or related to football.
Defensive coordinator Vance Joseph clarified that Thursday, telling reporters Butler had an important role on the team.
“It was a surprise for all of us,” he said. “He was a big part of what we were doing defensively. His experience showed every day. He was getting better and better within the package. He made some plays. Obviously, he’s a good tackler. He plays the ball very well.”
Butler was slated to be the team’s third cornerback, coming in for nickel defenses.
Joseph reiterated the retirement wasn’t about football.
“He’s taking care of some personal stuff and that’s important,” he said. “Obviously, football is a big part of his life, but his life is more important than football.”
Joseph noted he is “not sure” whether Butler would return to the team later.
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