Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett won’t ink a new deal with Seattle before Tuesday, and will test the open market, reports Adam Schefter of ESPN.com (via Twitter). After the Seahawks decided not to use their franchise tag on Bennett, he had appeared likely to reach unrestricted free agency.
After playing the 2013 season and winning the Super Bowl on a modest one-year deal worth about $5MM, Bennett figures to see a larger payday this time around. The former Buccaneer played a large part in the Seahawks’ strong pass rush last season, recording 8.5 sacks, forcing four fumbles, and recovering three more. He is viewed as one of the players available this offseason, and in fact ranks first overall on Pro Football Focus’ list of 2014’s top 75 free agents.
The Seahawks have made Bennett an offer, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (via Twitter), and there appears to be some mutual interest in a reunion. However, the 28-year-old wants to see what other potential suitors have to say. As Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports 1 tweets, the Jaguars and Raiders could be involved. The Bears are also expected to be in the mix, with Martellus Bennett attempting to recruit his brother to Chicago.