Michael Bennett was among the absent as the New England Patriots returned to the practice fields Tuesday.
As first reported by NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport and Mike Giardi, the veteran defensive lineman has been suspended one week for conduct detrimental to the team.
Bennett released a statement to Jordan Schultz of ESPN.
“On Friday, I had a philosophical disagreement with my position coach that has led to my suspension,” Bennett told ESPN. “I apologize to my teammates for any distraction this may have caused.”
Bennett’s playtime percentage has reduced in each of New England’s six games this season. He saw 37 defensive snaps against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the opener, and just 11 last Thursday night against the New York Giants.
The 33-year-old Bennett has recorded five tackles and 2.5 sacks thus far into his stay under defensive line coach Bret Bielema. He’s been on the field of 35 percent of the downs.
New England acquired Bennett and a 2020 seventh-round pick from the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a future fifth-round pick in March.
The three-time Pro Bowler recorded 34 tackles, nine sacks and two forced fumbles with Philadelphia last season. During which, Bennett was on the field for 68 percent of the defensive snaps and started 10 games.
The Patriots will travel to MetLife Stadium next Monday for an 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff with the New York Jets.