Report: Bennett to test free agency, 'real possibility' he leaves Patriots
New England Patriots tight end Martellus Bennett is reportedly set on seeing his worth on the open market.
Bennett could still re-sign with the Patriots, but he intends to test free agency this offseason - and with a strong market likely, it's a "real possibility" he leaves New England, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.
The 29-year-old had a resurgent season as a key part of the Super Bowl champions, with Rob Gronkowski sidelined for the majority of the season.
Bennett caught 55 passes for 701 yards and seven touchdowns, and will likely be the top free-agent tight end available.
Just after the report broke, Bennett tweeted that he hadn't "given free agency a ton of thought" and said he was concentrating on his multimedia company, which focuses on creating children's content:
I haven't given free agency a ton of thought at this moment to be truly honest. I've been in MartyLand creating for @ImaginationAgcy
— Martellus Bennett (@MartysaurusRex) February 22, 2017
Rapoport addeed that Bennett's contract demands could mean the Patriots will be priced out of contention despite a "mutually respectful relationship." It will likely be the tight end's last chance at a big-money contract.
Once again, Bennet had a response:
I haven't asked for anything either. I'm just chilling. Lol
— Martellus Bennett (@MartysaurusRex) February 22, 2017