Martellus Bennett is set to hit the free agent market on March 9, and although a “mutually respectful relationship” exists between he and the Patriots, Bennett may leave for a better offer, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (Twitter links), who adds there’s a “real possibility” Bennett is suiting up for another club in 2017.
[RELATED: Tom Brady, Patriots Begin Extension Talks]
Although Rapoport alludes to Bennett’s asking price without naming a specific figure, Bennett reportedly turned down a $7MM per year extension offer from New England before the 2016 campaign got underway. However, Mike Reiss of ESPN.com previously reported that the Patriots explored adding only a single year to Bennett’s deal, which would explain why Bennett rejected the proposal. Speaking shortly after New England’s Super Bowl victory earlier this month, Bennett made it clear that he’s eyeing a significant raise this offseason.
“I’m going into free agency as a Super Bowl champion,” Bennett said. “You know they overpay Super Bowl champions!”
The Patriots acquired Bennett, who turns 30 next month, and a sixth-round pick from the Bears in exchange for a fourth-round pick, and the acquisition paid immediate dividends. Appearing in all 16 games, Bennett managed 55 receptions for 701 yards and seven touchdowns, and helped New England overcome the loss of fellow tight end Rob Gronkowski.
Buh-bye
Back to Dallas
Nope Arizona
Hell no
Have fun getting paid and not winning somewhere else ✌
So true. If he leaves he will never win another one.
Yeah I forgot no other team except for the Patriots wins the super bowl every season
Bye. There is also a reason he has been on so many teams
Locker room cancer. He ll screw up some team
No indication of that in Foxboro. And he played hurt a lot of the year and didn’t miss a game. He’s a personality, but I’m sorry to see him go.
I thought he fit in well with the cheaters!
Are you Mariano Rivera????!!!!
Wow what an honor it is!
Cheaters….lol. Spoken like a true Yankee/Giants fan.
If Seattle could get something decent for Graham it would be fun to see him join his crazy brother in Seattle. Those two are nuts together but a lot of fun to watch together. Imagine the hate they could get from fans of other teams.
You boys are RUFF. Smileeeee