Wednesday 8 November 2017 23:45, UK
The Green Bay Packers have released Martellus Bennett, bringing the tight end's short tenure at Lambeau Field to a surprising end.
General manager Ted Thompson announced the move on Wednesday after practice.
Per the league's transaction wire, Bennett was cut with the Packers citing a "failure to disclose a medical condition" as the reason for his release.
By cutting Bennett with that designation, Green Bay has paved the way to file a grievance to reclaim the $4.2m in remaining prorated signing-bonus money on the 30-year-old's contract.
Bennett was signed as an unrestricted free agent last offseason to a three-year deal worth $21m. That deal contained a signing bonus of $6.3m, of which Bennett was to receive $2.1m at the beginning of each season.
The veteran was added to the injury report after the bye last week with a shoulder injury. He did not play in the 30-17 loss on Monday to the Detroit Lions.
This season, Bennett has caught 24 passes for 233 yards with no touchdowns.
Bennett also posted on Instagram during the bye week a message that indicated he was thinking about retirement.
"After conversations with my family I'm pretty sure these next 8 games will be the conclusion of my NFL career," Bennett wrote.
"To everyone who has poured themselves and time into my life and career. These next games are for you. Thank you."
