The NFL combine, currently underway in Indianapolis, presents an opportunity for teams to meet player agents and discuss upcoming contracts. Naturally, it also presents an opportunity for members of the media to get an inside scoop on negotiations and rumors swirling around the league.
The latest to present some nuggets is Boston Globe beat writer Ben Volin, who published two tweets about the New England Patriots and the upcoming free agency earlier today:
2 nuggets as I head home from the Combine: Pats remain interested in bringing back Marty Bennett, though Jags & Raiders are interested, too
And two, don’t rule out Brandon Marshall coming to New England. There’s some mutual interest there
That the Patriots are interested in retaining Bennett is no surprise. After all, he looked comfortable in New England’s offense and displayed solid chemistry with quarterback Tom Brady. The question for the team is whether or not the price dictated by the market — which apparently includes the Jacksonville Jaguars and Oakland Raiders — will force it out of the race. Or if Bennett is willing to return if offers are comparable.
A possible union of wide receiver Brandon Marshall, who was released by the New York Jets earlier this week, and Patriots was already discussed on Pats Pulpit yesterday. The gist was that New England should reach out but not sign the veteran unless he is willing to take a team-friendly contract in exchange for a chance to reach the playoffs for the first time in his career.