Patriots biggest surprise in training camp is CB Malcolm Butler

The photo looks like CB Malcolm Butler is so happy that he is doing the Y-M-C-A.

He could be because he sure looks like a lock to crack the 2014 New England Patriots roster.

On September 7, 2013, Malcolm Butler took the field for an 11AM matchup with Clark Atlanta University. It was the home opener for West Alabama University. Malcolm was the starting left cornerback for the Tigers. The attendance was 5,838.

On September 7, 2014, Malcolm Butler will be at 347 Don Shula Dr. in Miami Gardens, Fl. at SunLife Stadium. The other player pictured in the photo will be the starting left cornerback. The opponent will be the Miami Dolphins for a 1PM start. The attendance will be 78,363.

Hinds Community College to West Alabama University to the New England Patriots was the plan. Why be a high draft pick when one can be an undrafted free agent(UDFA), and still make the team?

Doug Kyed, NESN:

Butler has done the impossible for an undrafted rookie out of Division II West Alabama: He has generated more headlines in training camp than Darrelle Revis — and he doesn’t even have a Wikipedia page. Butler hasn’t been perfect, but he has proven to be playmaker.

An interception from QB Tom Brady. A strip recovery from TE Rob Gronkowski. Allowed only two receptions in first NFL game against the Washington Redskins. Started all four preseason games against Washington Redskins, Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers and New York Giants.

Things have gone Malcolm's way since he arrived in Foxboro. Interceptions, receivers stepping out of bounds, plays being called back because of a penalty, and a host of good coverages and solid tackles.

Butler said “I just got out there and started playing.”

Welcome to New England.

Paul Murphy is a freelance writer from New Hampshire.

Follow me on Twitter at @_prmurphy

For more of my articles, click here.