New York Jets: 2018 Offseason predictions, 7-round mock draft, Vol. 2.0

FLORHAM PARK, NJ - JANUARY 21: New York Jets Owner Woody Johnson (C) poses with new General Manager Mike Maccagnan (L) and new Head Coach Todd Bowles after they were introduced to the media during a press conference on January 21, 2015 in Florham Park, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Schultz /Getty Images) /

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FOXBORO, MA – DECEMBER 24: Malcolm Butler #21 of the New England Patriots tackles LeSean McCoy #25 of the Buffalo Bills during the second half at Gillette Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Free Agent Target: Malcolm Butler

When the Patriots signed Stephon Gilmore to a five-year, $65 million deal last offseason, the days of Butler playing In Foxborough were numbered. He will likely hit the free agent market and be a sought-after cornerback.

In 2017, he was a very active player on the New England defense. He recorded two tackles for loss (among 70 total tackles), a sack, 13 passes defended, and two interceptions.

Butler made a name for himself in Super Bowl XLIX with the interception on the 1-yard line on a pass play call that should’ve been a run call, but that’s neither here nor there. He made the excellent play and etched his name into football lore forever. Since then, he’s done quite well for himself.

According to Mark Chichester of Pro Football Focus, he’s had 285 passes thrown his way when he’s in coverage since 2015. He’s had 29 pass breakups and six interceptions in that time, and the 15.4 percent playmaker index is the fourth highest in the NFL in those three seasons. Butler would provide the Jets secondary with an immediate upgrade. Him, Jamal Adams, Marcus Maye and the 2018 NFL Draftee could become a feared secondary in the NFL right away.

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