Martellus Bennett left the Green Bay Packers saying the organization mishandled an injury, but his former teammates aren’t sold on the tight end’s claims.
According to Ryan Wood of the Green Bay Press-Gazette, wideout Jordy Nelson called Bennett’s allegations “nonsense” and added “I think everyone knows what’s the truth.”
Left tackle David Bakhtiari had even stronger words. “Flat out, what’s he’s saying is crap.” And right guard Jahri Evans asserted that “we all know there was some fabrication” in what Bennett said about the team’s medical staff.
The Packers released the tight end for failing to disclose a shoulder injury. Bennett responded, alleging that team doctor Pat McKenzie pushed him to play.
Bennett also said he sought opinions from three other doctors, who advised him to get it fixed. Options about McKenzie notwithstanding, that seemed like a feasible explanation. But then, Bennett played for the New England Patriots just days later.
So, is the shoulder OK now? It’s highly suspect that Bennett would assert that he needs surgery yet appear in a game with 72 hours.
Per Robert Klemko of MMQB, Bennett credited vengeance in his heart for why he was able to suit up. That’s usually not how recovering from an injury works, but even if vengeance is actually the case, Bennett didn’t wear a shoulder harness. Logic suggests he’d want to protect a physical issue regardless of mental strength.
It’s easy to understand why the Packers — and many NFL viewers — are skeptical about Bennett’s exit from Green Bay.