Super Bowl XLIX hero returning for Patriots' home opener vs. Seahawks

The New England Patriots are honoring the near 10-year anniversary of their Super Bowl XLIX win over the Seattle Seahawks by inviting former cornerback Malcolm Butler to be the “Keeper of the light” at Sunday’s home opener.

It’s a new tradition for the Patriots to have a guest ring the bell atop the lighthouse at Gillette Stadium in the team’s first home game. Tom Brady was the guest last season when the team hosted the Philadelphia Eagles.

Butler being the guest against the Seahawks is poetic considering he’s the one who snagged the game-winning interception from quarterback Russell Wilson on the goal line to help the Patriots win their fourth Super Bowl.

It was one of the greatest plays in Super Bowl history.

Super Bowl XLIX ended up being one of the most devastating losses in franchise history for the Seahawks. Former coach Pete Carroll was constantly scrutinized for not handing the ball off to Marshawn Lynch on the goal line.

Frustrations from that game lingered and ultimately played a role in the team dismantling. Carroll is still a senior advisor for the Seahawks.

Sunday’s ceremony will be like taking salt in the wounds with both hands tied for the legendary coach.