The New England Patriots rarely add more money to the contracts of veteran players they are looking to get the most out of, but they must feel that Michael Bennett has a lot of good football left in him.
ESPN’s Field Yates reported on Monday that the Patriots have agreed to a restructured two-year contract with Bennett that gives him more guaranteed money and the ability to earn more than his previous deal.
Sources: the Patriots and DE Michael Bennett have agreed to a reworked two-year deal with a base value of $16.75M, including a $4M signing bonus. Bennett gets guaranteed money and more upside, while the move creates $700K in cap space for the team in 2019.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) April 2, 2019
Bennett had two years and $15.7 million remaining on his previous contract, so the new deal with New England will give him more financial security. Guaranteed money is always the priority for NFL players, and that is especially true for one who is 33 like Bennett. As Yates mentioned, the new deal lowers Bennett’s cap hit for 2019, so it is beneficial for both sides.
The Patriots chose not to re-sign pass-rusher Trey Flowers this offseason, but Bennett should be able to play a big role for them next season. He recently listed all the reasons he used to hate the Pats, but those no longer apply. Getting some new guaranteed money should make Bennett even happier with his new team.
