Former New England Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler’s benching at Super Bowl LII was a big talking point in the Apple TV+ docuseries “The Dynasty: New England Patriots.”
Past and current members of the Patriots weighed in on Bill Belichick’s decision, including owner Robert Kraft, who was blunt in his assessment of the situation.
The Patriots defense could not stop the Eagles in that game, as Philadelphia recorded 538 total yards of offense.
The New England secondary struggled throughout the course of the game, and Butler’s absence was undoubtedly felt on the defensive unit. New England could not stop the Philadelphia passing attack in a game where the Eagles recorded 374 yards through the air with their backup quarterback, Nick Foles, under center.
“What has been told to me is that there was something personal going on between Bill and Malcolm that was not football-related,” Kraft said, as transcribed by AtoZ Sports’ Sophie Weller. “I always felt that every decision Bill had made had been to put what’s in the best interest of the team first and put emotion aside. But with Malcolm, he did just the opposite.”
Robert Kraft on Malcolm Butler's benching in Super Bowl 52 (Patriots vs Eagles)
“What has been told to me is that there was something personal going on between Bill and Malcolm that was not football-related. I always felt that every decision Bill had made had been to put what’s…
— Sophie Weller (@sophieewellerr) March 15, 2024
Many of Belichick’s decisions are hard to argue with due to the sustained success the team had for nearly two decades. However, the decision to bench Butler undoubtedly looms as one of the most heavily criticized to this very day.