Darius Butler, Colts Agree to 1-Year Contract

Defensive back Darius Butler is returning to the Indianapolis Colts after the team announced a one-year deal Friday.

Per Adam Schefter of ESPN, the contract is for $3 million but could be worth up to $4.5 million based on incentives.

Butler started his career with the New England Patriots as a second-round pick in 2009 out of Connecticut. He spent two seasons there before being placed on waivers and claimed by the Carolina Panthers.

After one season with the Panthers, Butler signed with the Colts as a free agent in 2012. He set a career high with four interceptions in his first season with the team, despite only playing in 11 games.

Injuries have been a theme for Butler throughout his career. He's only played a full 16-game schedule once in eight seasons, though his level of production was never higher than it was in 2016.

Louie Benjamin of Pro Football Focus broke down the stats to show Butler's move to free safety:

Butler told Kevin Bowen of the Colts' official website that his position change gave him a fresh perspective: "For me, I feel like it was a beginning of a new career almost. I'm 30 now, but I feel like I have a lot of football left. My body feels good. Being back there is a different perspective. I like it."

He will likely stay at safety full time going forward next to Clayton Geathers, and his past experience at cornerback gives the Colts some versatility.