Bucs re-sign RB Bennett for 3 years
The veteran expects his role won't be decided until training camp.
By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Published February 16, 2008
TAMPA - If there's one unit the Bucs must address this offseason, it's running back.
Considering Earnest Graham was the lone healthy and experienced back under contract, it's no wonder the Bucs decided to re-sign veteran Michael Bennett to a three-year contract extension Friday, two weeks before he was to become a free agent.
Bennett didn't factor prominently for the Bucs in 2007 after a trade-deadline deal sent him from Kansas City to Tampa Bay in October. His lack of familiarity with Jon Gruden's intricate playbook prevented the coach from entrusting Bennett with the football more than the 41 times he carried it. But the 29-year-old Bennett was effective when used, notching 189 yards and a 4.6-yard per carry average, the highest among the team's backs.
Bennett and, apparently, Gruden saw that as something to build on.
"Coach Gruden kept telling me he wanted me there," Bennett said. "I was kind of up in the air with things, but the Bucs called my agent, and he let me know they were serious about bringing me back."
What remains to be seen is how Friday's news impacts the team's future decisions at running back. It would seem likely that Bennett's extension reduces the chances 32-year-old Michael Pittman will return. He has already said he intends to test free agency and has authorized his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, to find him a situation where he might have a more defined role. The Bucs are expected to add at least one other running back via the draft or free agency.
They've historically kept three reliable backs on the roster. Though they still envision Cadillac Williams as part of their future, he can't be counted on for now as he attempts to make the difficult recovery from a patellar tendon tear suffered in September. The Bucs have been reluctant to give a timetable for his return, and it remains possible and, perhaps, likely he won't be ready at the start of training camp in July.
As for what Bennett's role will be, he isn't certain and expects that won't be settled until training camp. Graham, who is working toward an extension of his own, figures to enter camp as the leading candidate to start. But a lot can happen between now and the start of the season.
"All that will get worked out later," Bennett said. "I'm not trying to come in here and be the man. I do think I have some explosiveness and ability. I just want a chance to showcase it."
Stephen F. Holder can be reached at sholder@sptimes.com.