Super Bowl hero Malcolm Butler has been benched during practice for the past three weeks, according to reports.

The New England Patriots player intercepted Russell Wilson's pass near the end zone in the final minute of the Super Bowl, which effectively won his side the game.

However, The Boston Herald claims that Butler was late for the first OTA of the season due to a late flight and has subsequently been punished.

Despite the sanction, Butler is understood to have taken it as a lesson and is keen to prove himself.

The corner back started just one game last season.