Quan Martin has been getting most of the first-team reps at free safety ahead of Butler and Darrick Forrest, Hogs Haven's Jamual Forrest reports. Butler and Forrest both made starts under the previous coaching staff but now appear headed for backup roles under Dan Quinn. Moving Butler to free safety frees up the slot corner role for rookie second-round pick Mike Sainristil, who was one of the top collegiate players at that spot for Michigan the past two seasons. Butler and Forrest might even end up competing for a single roster spot.
Butler (wrist) is participating at Washington's organized team activities, Stephen Whyno of the team's official website reports. Butler missed the final two games of the 2023 season due to a wrist injury. The severity of the injury was unknown at that time, but his presence at OTAs indicates his health is back up to par. He projects to start at free safety in the upcoming season opposite Jeremy Chinn.
Butler departed in the first quarter with a back issue and was examined by Washington's medical staff. The injury doesn't appear to be serious, as the safety has since made his return. Butler is a key part of the Commanders' secondary, playing on every one of the team's defensive snaps over the past five weeks coming into Sunday.
Butler limped off the field and is getting looked at by Washington's medical staff. For the time being, Terrell Burgess is expected to take over as the Commanders' free safety.