Michael

Bennett

34-year-old Bennett walks away after 11 prominent seasons with the Buccaneers, Seahawks, and Eagles, notching three Pro Bowls and adding one Super Bowl title to his mantle while playing in Seattle. As cited in the New Yorker, Bennett, a social-justice advocate who has long been one of the most vocal anti-racists in the NFL, had reportedly made up his mind to retire before the pandemic in order to focus on helping other athletes speak out against injustice. For as respectable as his career was, he’ll undoubtedly do far better things off the field in the coming years.

Bennett spent 2019 between the Patriots and Cowboys, posting 6.5 sacks as a sub-package rusher. There were rumors he was considering retirement. Bennett should have interest if he returns for another season. He’s said he wants to finish his career in Seattle.

After re-structuring his contract with the Cowboys, Bennett is a free agent, leaving open the possibility of a reunion with the Seahawks. Bennett is simply a depth option and veteran mentor at this stage of his career but could be a low-cost fit for Seattle. The free agent did continue to say, “It’s not up to you, though. It’s up to the team.”

Bennett is “optimistic” he won’t miss any time. The Cowboys suffered injuries to multiple key defenders in the Thanksgiving loss to Buffalo. We should know more on Bennett’s status next week.

Bennett has been tossing bouquets the Seahawks’ way all offseason, but has made it clear he won’t be re-signing for less than top dollar. There’s now a good chance he’ll get that somewhere other than Seattle. According to FOX Sports’ Mike Garafolo, the Jaguars and Raiders are “lurking” as potential suitors. Bennett is Rotoworld’s No. 3 free-agent end.

As a result, Bennett will be a free agent after this season. Per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Bennett (who earned $5.6 million during his brief tenure in New England) can earn up to $2 million in base salary and active roster bonuses with another $750,000 available in incentives. Bennett, who was dealt during the bye week, will make his Cowboys debut Monday night against the Giants.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports it could become a sixth-round pick if Bennett hits certain thresholds for the Cowboys. Bennett was disillusioned with his limited playing time in New England, and arguably rightfully so. He has 2.5 sacks on just 130 snaps this season. For their part, the Cowboys have sported a middle-of-the-pack pass rush. With the Patriots loaded and dominating, it’s a move that makes sense for both sides.

“On Friday, I had a philosophical disagreement with my position coach that has led to my suspension,” Bennett said in a statement to ESPN. “I apologize to my teammates for any distraction this may have caused.” Bennett has been upset with his playing time, as he’s been on the field for just 130 snaps. That includes a season-low 11 in Week 6. He has still managed to register 2.5 sacks. It’s possible his reinstatement will be followed by his release.

Bennett played a season-low 22 percent of snaps (11-of-50) Thursday in a victory over the Giants and didn’t seem particularly thrilled about it. “I don’t know what’s happening,” said a deflated Bennett, who has quickly fallen behind John Simon and rookie Chase Winovich on New England’s depth chart. “If I had a better answer, I would tell you.” Despite his impressive resume (three Pro Bowl nods), the veteran pass-rusher may not be long for Foxboro.

Bennett was facing a felony charge for injuring a 66-year-old at the 2017 Super Bowl. The Patriots were never concerned with his legal situation, swapping a late-round pick for Bennett and signing him to a new two-year deal. Bennett is still subject to the league’s personal conduct policy but a suspension seems unlikely.