Percy Butler (35) forced a fumble against the Rams. Brad Mills, USA Today

Commanders Safety Percy Butler 'Has A Bright Future'

Originally posted on FanNation Washington Football
By Nathaniel Marrero | Last updated 11/15/23

With the constant shuffling along the Washington Commanders' defense, young players have had to step up.

One of those players is second-year safety Percy Butler. Through 10 games, eight of which he's started, Butler has seen a huge uptick in his playing time on defense. Butler has played 74 percent of the snaps this season compared to just 15 percent last season.

Butler has 33 tackles, five passes defended and two tackles for loss this year. With the larger sample size of play, Commanders head coach Ron Rivera has been pleased with what he's seen from the second-year safety.

“I think he is one of the guys that's gotten a lot of opportunities," Rivera said. "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."

Butler is coming off the best game of his career with nine tackles, one of which was for a loss and a pass defended in Washington's 29-26 loss to the Seattle Seahawks (6-3) on Sunday at Lumen Field. While Butler may have played his best on Sunday, Rivera noted there's still plenty for the young safety to learn.

"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.”

The Commanders (4-6) will look to get back on track on Sunday when they face the New York Giants (2-8) at 1 p.m. ET at FedEx Field.

This article first appeared on FanNation Washington Football and was syndicated with permission.

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