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Packers sign Martellus Bennett to reported 3-year, $18.45M deal

Ron Chenoy / USA TODAY Sports

Who says the Packers are unwilling to strike in free agency?

Green Bay has signed veteran tight end Martellus Bennett, the team announced Friday.

Bennett will join the Packers on a three-year, $18.45-million contract, according to ESPN's Rob Demovsky. The figure is reportedly less than what Jared Cook almost agreed to with the Packers.

Bennett made the most of his opportunity after landing with the New England Patriots in a trade last offseason, and hit the open market as a coveted free agent this week.

While the Packers have long been reluctant to sign veteran players - particularly for any sort of big money - the 30-year-old Bennett fills a major need on the offensive side.

The high-powered Green Bay passing attack now gets a major upgrade at a position that proved to be critical for the unit's rhythm last season. Not only is Bennett a dynamic talent who can make plays all over the field, but he also has the increasingly rare ability to contribute as an in-line blocker.

Bennett stepped in as New England's No. 1 tight end following the season-ending injury to Rob Gronkowski in 2016, finishing his lone campaign with the Patriots with 55 receptions for 701 yards and seven touchdowns.

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