Michael Bennett's journey in professional football began when he was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2001 NFL Draft. A running back known for his speed, Bennett quickly became a valuable asset to the team. During his rookie season, he played in all 16 games and started in 13, rushing for 682 yards and two touchdowns. His performance earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team, setting the stage for a promising career.
In 2002, Bennett's career reached a high point. He rushed for 1,296 yards and five touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection. His ability to break away from defenders with his speed made him a standout player that season. However, injuries began to plague Bennett's career, starting with a foot injury that limited his play in 2003. Despite these setbacks, he continued to contribute to the Vikings' offense when healthy.
Bennett's tenure with the Vikings lasted until 2005, after which he signed with the New Orleans Saints. His time with the Saints was short-lived, as he was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2006. With the Chiefs, Bennett served primarily as a backup running back, providing depth to the team's roster. Over two seasons, he appeared in 17 games and rushed for 252 yards.
In 2008, Bennett joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he played for two seasons. His role remained that of a backup, and he contributed both on the ground and in special teams. Bennett's final NFL stop was with the San Diego Chargers in 2010, where he played in six games before being released.
Throughout his career, Bennett was known for his speed and agility, which allowed him to excel in various offensive schemes. Despite facing challenges with injuries, he managed to maintain a presence in the league for nearly a decade. His career statistics include 3,703 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns, along with 1,294 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns.
After retiring from professional football, Bennett's life took a different turn. He faced legal issues, including charges related to wire fraud, which led to a prison sentence. These events marked a difficult chapter in his post-football life, contrasting with the achievements of his athletic career.
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