ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Patriots are signing CB Malcolm Butler to a 2-year deal that could be worth up to $9 million. The money suggests they hope Butler can start for them but doesn't necessarily lock him into their top 3 at the position. Butler missed last season after "retiring" but has clearly been inspired by Tom Brady. When active, Butler is capable of delivering useful IDP numbers -- at least in part because QBs like to throw at him.

The Cardinals on Tuesday placed CB Malcolm Butler on the reserve/retired list. That came a day after NFL Network's Mike Garafolo surprising report that a "personal situation" had Butler considering hanging 'em up. That leaves Byron Murphy and Robert Alford as the top 2 CBs for Arizona. The 3rd isn't yet clear, but 4th-round rookie Marco Wilson might be trending toward occupying that spot. We'll see whether the Cardinals add a contender for the role.