While one might not expect to hear many philosophical disagreements occurring on a football practice field, that’s exactly what’s being blamed for the suspension of New England’s Michael Bennett.
#Patriots veteran DL Michael Bennett has been suspended one week by the team for conduct detrimental, per @MikeGiardi and me. He was not at practice today.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 15, 2019
The 11-year veteran has been ousted for one week after he reportedly butted heads with Patriots defensive line coach Bret Bielema. “I had a philosophical disagreement with my position coach that has led to my suspension,” Bennett says. “I apologize to my teammates for any distraction this may have caused.” The exact nature of the disagreement has not been disclosed.
Since Bennett joined the Patriots at the beginning of the season, the team’s defense has become the NFL’s top-ranked.
Do teams only hurt themselves when they suspend valuable players? Would it be better to fine players for minor offenses, and reserve suspensions for more serious infractions?
