The Kansas City Chiefs traded running back Michael Bennett to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for undisclosed draft picks on Tuesday. Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards announced that Bennett had been traded during his morning press conference.
The Chiefs official site reports the team will receive undisclosed draft choices in 2008 and 2009 based on performance criteria.
"We lost a good football player in Michael Bennett," Edwards said. "Obviously, we felt it was good for both organizations. Good for Michael Bennett, who has a chance to start on a good football team. We, obviously, acquired some picks for the future."
The trade of Bennett coincides with the return of veteran running back Priest Holmes, who will begin practicing on Wednesday . Holmes, 34, has been on the ineligible list and not able to practice since he unexpectedly reported to training camp in July.
"We appreciate Michael Bennett's contributions to the Kansas City Chiefs during his short time with us," Chiefs President Carl Peterson told kcchiefs.com. "Michael conducted himself as a professional as a member of the Chiefs and we wish him the best in this opportunity with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers."
The acquisition of Bennett should help the Bucs compensate for the loss of injured tailbacks Carnell "Cadillac" Williams and Michael Pittman. Tampa Bay lost Williams, the 2005 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, to a season-ending knee injury in Week 4 against Carolina. Pittman took over as the starter, but was lost to a high ankle sprain the following week against Indianapolis that could sideline him up to two months.
"We believe that the addition of Michael Bennett will strengthen our running back position," Bucs general manager Bruce Allen said in a statement.
Bennett, 29, was in his second season in Kansas City. He played in all six games as a reserve this season, rushing for 52 yards on 20 attempts while adding 10 receptions for 47 yards. Bennett was acquired by Kansas City from New Orleans in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick prior to the 2006 season.
The former first round draft pick, chosen 27th overall by Minnesota in the 2001 NFL Draft, spent his first five seasons with the Vikings. Bennett started 49 of his 64 games with the Vikings, and was named to the 2002 Pro Bowl after rushing for 1,296 yards and five touchdowns.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
