Commanders veteran goes from undesirable to undeniable with minicamp dominance

The Washington Commanders are giving everyone a chance to showcase their skills in pursuit of different roles in 2025. One player under more pressure than most is taking on the significant challenge and thriving according to reports.

Being in a contract year makes players think differently. Once secure futures are changed quickly. Stakes are raised with financial rewards attached, and this extra urgency typically brings about improved performance levels. It's early days, but the Commanders are starting to see more from Percy Butler when all hope seemed lost.

It's a big year for Butler. He's out of contract in 2026 and faces a fight to hold onto his primary backup role with the likes of Tyler Owens, Jeremy Reaves, and Ben Nikkel breathing down his neck. It could go either way for the safety, but it's bringing a positive response so far.

Percy Butler is moving differently in Commanders' contract year

Dan Quinn singled out Butler for special praise during his media availability at Washington's mandatory minicamp. The head coach has noted how hard the former fourth-round pick has been working away from the team, and it's showing on the field.

This is a positive development where Butler is concerned. He's more valued by the team by Washington's fan base, emerging as a core special teamer while struggling to find the right consistency on the defensive rotation. His roster spot is seemingly secure, so his long-term fate rests on how much he can kick on before the time comes to decide his fate.

What comes next is down to the player. He's managed to get the coaching staff to sit up and take notice. Butler is out to prove his worth to secure a new deal from the Commanders or elsewhere next spring. Performing well during preparations will help, but how he produces in a competitive setting will be the most telling factor.

Butler hasn't been the most consistent when tasked with duties on the backend. He struggles to be influential against the run, and his mishaps in coverage are an ongoing frustration. His 130.8 passer rating when targeted throughout a rollercoaster three-year career just isn't good enough. Even so, he's putting in the hard yards to change the narrative.

The Louisiana graduate has given himself a fighting chance. If Butler can avoid complacency and seize opportunities when they arise, it'll give those in power plenty to think about.

More Commanders news and analysis