**Update**
After the Patriots released cornerback Darius Butler on Tuesday afternoon, he was claimed off waivers by the Carolina Panthers.
The Panthers were first on the waiver wire due to their record last season. The team reportedly tried to trade Butler, but were unsuccessful. Certainly frustrating for the Pats front office to then have the third-year corner claimed off waivers by the first team.
In any case, Butler should have a good opportunity to have a fresh start in Carolina and could contend for a starting job.
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On Tuesday afternoon Patriots cornerback, Darius Butler, released a statement via twitter saying goodbye to New England.
"Its been real New England. I was blessed to have a chance to play and start my NFL career here. But its time to open a new chapter. Thx #patsnation"
Shalise Manza Young of The Boston Globe report is obviously confirmed by the third-year cornerback's tweet.
Butler was elected with the 41st overall pick of the 2009 NFL Draft, starting five as a rookie. After a tough sophomore season, the defensive back has fallen behind Devin McCourty, Leigh Bodden, Kyle Arrington and 2011 second-round pick Ras-I Dowling on the depth chart.
Butler had two years and $1.41 million remaining on his four-year, $4.325 million rookie contract.
I am definitely sad the Patriots decided to release Butler, but I understand the move. I really liked him coming out of the University of Connecticut and feel he can offer a lot to an NFL team. Perhaps with some development, scheme change, and a chance of scenery, he can have a fresh start.
I would look at the New York Giants as a possible landing spot, after the club had a horrendous injury-plagued pre-season. In any case, I wish him the best of luck.
For Patriots updates in an instant, Follow me on Twitter: @PatriotsHaven!
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