Commanders News: Sam Howell, Michael Carter, Ron Rivera and Bill Belichick
By Dean Jones
Commanders see potential in Percy Butler
With Darrick Forrest currently rehabbing a significant injury complication, Percy Butler is getting more chances to prove his worth. It's not been perfect for the defensive back, but he's growing in stature as part of his ongoing development into a valuable contributor long-term.
Butler has seen his defensive snaps go from 15 percent as a rookie to 74% in his second season. Head coach Ron Rivera spoke about the former fourth-round selection's potential via Sports Illustrated, claiming there are some things to clean up while also acknowledging his bright future in the NFL.
"I think he is one of the guys that's gotten a lot of opportunities. Obviously, with the injury to [S Darrick Forrest], he's had to step up and again, he's still growing and learning. But, with his athletic ability, his ability to run, you'd like to see him continue to grow and show you what he's capable of, which he's doing. He made a couple of really nice plays on the ball. He did miss a tackle on one situation, and it's one of those things that again, he's got to understand he's the topper. He's the guy that's got to put a lid on it and kind of allow a play to continue. So, he'll continue to work at that and understand and learn his angles. I mean, he's a good young player that's got a bright future in this league."
- Ron Rivera via Sports Illustrated
Hopefully, Butler can continue to progress. Something that would give the Washington Commanders a three-headed monster at safety alongside Forrest and Kamren Curl.