After making a move for Atlanta Falcons receiver Mohamed Sanu, the Patriots were not finished. Late Thursday afternoon, the New England Patriots dealt off defensive end Michael Bennett to the Dallas Cowboys for a conditional 7th round pick (could eventually turn into a 6th round pick) for the 2021 NFL Draft.
Michael Bennett Suspended For Jets
Michael Bennett was forced to sit out for the Monday Night Football matchup against the New York Jets. Bennett was suspended for “conduct detrimental to the team”. In other words, Bennett has been unhappy with the amount of snaps he’s been receiving.
During his time in New England this season, Bennett has only seen 133 of 374 defensive snaps (35.6%). As a result, he has only gained 5 tackles and 2.5 sacks.
Bennett May Be A Backup In Dallas
However, even though Bennett has been traded, he is unlikely to see a much wanted increase in playing time. He is likely to play behind DeMarcus lawrence and Robert Quinn. Quinn did get knocked out of the second half vs Philadelphia due to muscles spasms. Furthermore, he may be utilized in the inside of the defensive line with certain sub packages, especially with Crawford out.
Tyrone Crawford has been placed on the IR after having to undergo hip surgery. Michael Bennett’s main source of play may be as a result of Crawford having to miss the remainder of the season.
Reunited With His Former Defensive Coordinator
All 3 of Michael Bennett’s pro bowl seasons (2015 – 2017) have come while Kris Richard was the defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. Richard is now apart of the Cowboys defense. Although Bennett may be an understudy in Dallas, he can certainly help them in the second half of the season.
Most importantly, Michael Bennett is 34 years old. This doesn’t seem to be a move with the future in mind. However, it seems New England just wanted to offload an upset player.
The Cowboys and Patriots play each other on Nov. 24th.
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