In a game that featured two future Hall of Fame coaches, the reigning league MVP and one of the NFL’s all-time great pass rushers, it was safety LeRoy Butler who changed the complexion of Super Bowl XXXI. With Green Bay trailing New England, Butler’s relentless pass rush from Drew Bledsoe changed the momentum and helped the Packers capture the franchise’s first title in 29 years.
Nearly 30 years after reaching the pinnacle of pro football, Butler will enter football immortality as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2022. Butler will be joined by several teammates and former teammates in Canton, Ohio: teammates including quarterback Brett Favre and pass rusher Reggie White. As he prepares for Saturday’s induction ceremony, Butler spent time with hosts Patrick Patterson and Bryant McFadden on the “All Things Covered” podcast.
One of the things Butler discussed was a piece of advice he received during his playing days from Dion Sanders, another defensive back whose career is on display in the Hall of Fame.
“I know the name on the front of the jersey means something,” Sanders told Butler, “but the name on the back of the jersey has something too.”
Butler certainly made a name for himself in Green Bay, especially after his stint The first “Lambeau Leap,” That has become tradition ever since a Packers player crossed the goal line at Lambeau Field.
Speaking of household names, Butler was asked to compare White to Aaron Donald, the Rams’ dominant defensive tackle who is destined for Canton once he’s eligible. Butler also ranked among the top five defensive players in NFL history. In order, Butler tabbed White, Ronnie Lott and Sanders, while adding Lawrence Taylor to his Mount Rushmore of defensive players.
Be sure to watch the entire episode to hear Butler’s thoughts on other topics, including what it was like to practice against Favre, his favorite memory from Super Bowl XXXI and how he sees Aaron Rodgers’ future in Green Bay. are