The Indianapolis Colts signed cornerback Darius Butler on Tuesday and released guard Trai Essex.
Butler, 26, appeared in 13 games -- including six starts -- with the Carolina Panthers last season, recording 32 tackles and seven passes defensed.
A second-round pick (41st overall) of the New England Patriots in 2009, Butler has compiled three interceptions with one touchdown return and 90 tackles in 42 games -- 14 starts -- over his three-year career.
Essex, an eight-year veteran who signed with the Colts after the first game of the season, saw action in each of Indianapolis' last two contests.
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