New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick spoke to the media for the first time since reports surfaced that defensive end Michael Bennett was suspended for one week due to conduct detrimental to the team.
Bennett told ESPN that he was suspended due to a “philosophical disagreement” with defensive line coach Bret Bielema. Belichick did not get into what led to the suspension.
Belichick was asked about the situation, but deflected all questions in regards to Bennett.
“I’m not going to comment on any player’s personal situation,” he said during a press conference at Gillette Stadium on Thursday.
The philosophical difference between Bennett and Bielema likely has something to do with Bennett seeing a decrease in snaps this season. After all, Bennett called his role “the zero role” on Oct. 4.
Where does Bennett’s role go from here? Belichick would not get into that either.
“Right now we’re focused on the Jets,” Belichick said. “So, that’s what we’re working on.”
Belichick was asked, generically, how it may be difficult for veteran players to go from one team to another and be asked to change to fit their new team best. Bennett fits into that category as he has been tasked with changing from a 4-3 defensive end during his time in Philadelphia to more of a 3-4 defensive end in New England’s new scheme.
“Yeah, I don’t know. You would have to ask the players that,” Belichick said. “It varies probably from player to player.”
The New England Patriots will travel to the New York Jets on Monday Night Football.
