Packers TE Martellus Bennett says he likely will retire at end of season

Green Bay Packers tight end Martellus Bennett took to his Instagram account Saturday to announce he likely will retire at the end of the 2017 season. 

Bennett joined the Packers as a free agent in March.

"After conversations with my family I'm pretty sure these next eight games will be the conclusion of my NFL career," Bennett wrote. 

The Packers actually have nine games remaining in the regular season.

"To everyone who has poured themselves and time into my life and career," Bennett concluded. These next games are for you. Thank you."

Bennett signed a three-year, $21 million contract. The deal came with a $6.3 million signing bonus – the only guaranteed money – and pays $8.05 million in the first year.

The Packers are scheduled to pay Bennett a $2 million roster bonus next March on the third day of the 2018 league year, but it would appear Bennett will forgo not only that bonus but also the remaining two years of his deal.  

Bennett has struggled with drops during his short time in Green Bay, a problem that had not plagued him elsewhere during his career. But he also has shown flashes of the ability that made the Packers target him as a replacement for Jared Cook in free agency. 

Bennett also has made headlines for his stance in support of his brother, Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett. Martellus Bennett joined his brother in protest against racial inequality and police brutality, raising his right fist while "The Star Spangled Banner" was played before the team's season opener.