PHOENIX -- With New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton saying Wednesday that his team won't be signing cornerback Malcolm Butler to an offer sheet because it doesn't want to give up the No. 11 overall pick, but adding that interest in Butler is "ongoing," it sparks the question: What's the next step that could lead to a conclusion with Butler's status?
There are two primary layers to consider.
The first is a long shot. Perhaps there is another team that is willing to sign Butler to an offer sheet and surrender a first-round draft choice in return if the Patriots don't match.