Even though multiple teams have shown interest in defensive end Michael Bennett, it sounds as though the free-agent pass rusher isn't blown away by what clubs are offering. Or maybe he's just extremely loyal.
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Bennett told WHFS-FM that he will give the Tampy Bay Buccaneers an opportunity to keep him in-house when the market opens Tuesday.
"I'll give the Bucs the chance to match any offer I get. I love the Bucs and want to finish (my career) here," Bennett told the station, per JoeBucsFan.com.
NFL.com's Ian Rapoport later reported that a source close to Bennett said the free agent misspoke during the interview, and the Bucs actually might not get an opportunity to match any offer Bennett receives. It might not matter as Stephen F. Holder of the Tampa Bay Times reported Bennett is "not a priority" for the Bucs heading into free agency.
One team with eyes for Bennett is the Tennessee Titans. Bennett is close to Titans defensive line coach Keith Millard, who previously coached him in Tampa Bay. Bennett is on record saying he loved playing for Millard.
Bennett is an under-the-radar lineman who the Bucs have a need for. He's certainly better than fellow end Da'Quan Bowers. It's puzzling to see Tampa, with plenty of cap room, potentially moving on.
Follow Marc Sessler on Twitter @MarcSesslerNFL.
