Martellus Bennett Retires

Martellus Bennett Announces Retirement

After finishing his 10th season in the NFL last season, Bennett stood out as a veteran entering this year’s free agency. Despite recently celebrating his 31st birthday, he was still one of the top players in free agency at the tight end position. The 2014 Pro Bowler was cut by the Patriots as part of a move to save cap space. Bennett’s contract was set to account for $6.2 million against the cap.

At 6’6″ and 275 pounds, Bennett still has the frame and physical ability to be a playmaker. As a passing threat, it may be a matchup nightmare for certain linebackers or defensive backs to contain. While he’s had a lot of fantastic seasons receiving, he also adds versatility in the running game. His build is an advantageous addition to the end of the offensive line in the run game because he’s already as big, if not bigger, than most defensive ends or linebackers and has no trouble blocking them compared to others tight ends.

A year ago, Bennett signed a three-year, $21 million-dollar contract with the Packers, but his time there ended abruptly after the team claimed he failed to report an injury designation. Bennett defended himself by denying the claims but eventually was picked back up by the Patriots where he recorded a career-high seven touchdowns in 2016. After a few weeks of making his return, Bennett found himself on injured reserve and was released by the team in early March.

At this point in his career, it’s hard to argue Bennett will continue to get better. At 31 years old, regression should be expected but given the talent he’s shown over recent years he could still be a valuable asset to a team in need. Besides having an injury-plagued 2017 season, if what he’s done the past few seasons is any indicator of his capability, then there’s certainly some gas left in the tank.