Malcolm Butler didn't play in Super Bowl LII primarily because of a personal conflict with then-Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia. According to reports, Butler had a heated argument with Patricia during practice leading to his benching for the game. Patricia was unhappy with Butler's effort on the practice field, which resulted in Butler being demoted and not playing in the game except for a special teams snap. Butler himself has described his absence as a "coach's decision" and has not publicly detailed the reasons, citing loyalty and respect for the team. Patriots owner Robert Kraft has also commented that the benching was due to something personal between Butler and coach Bill Belichick, not related to football reasons like injury or performance. Various rumors such as partying before the game, injury, or missing curfew have been denied by Butler or regarded as untrue. The true specific details have remained private, as Butler and the team have chosen to keep them confidential.