Packers TE Martellus Bennett's reason for potential retirement: 'Life'

GREEN BAY – Three days after announcing his potential retirement at season’s end, Green Bay Packers tight end Martellus Bennett declined to be interviewed inside the locker room Tuesday at Lambeau Field.

Asked if he would speak to the media at any point this week, the veteran tight end said, “Probably not.” Pressed on why he wouldn’t speak, Bennett said, “Nothing to talk about.”

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Bennett’s announcement Saturday on Instagram caught the Packers by surprise. Coach Mike McCarthy said he hadn’t consulted with his tight end beforehand. Bennett signed a three-year, $21 million contract in March, though the deal could be viewed as one year with a team option for the final two.

McCarthy declined to share his reaction to the news Tuesday morning.

“Any time comments are made,” McCarthy said, “you should probably speak to the individual. I’m not going to speak on anybody’s future plans and so forth. But there’ll be a point to sit down and talk to Marty.”

In his Instagram post, Bennett wrote: "After conversations with my family I'm pretty sure these next eight games will be the conclusion of my NFL career. To everyone who has poured themselves and time into my life and career. These next games are for you. Thank you."

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

Bennett has not spoken with the media for more than two weeks, declining interview requests after the Packers' games against the Minnesota Vikings and New Orleans Saints. League rules require players to regularly make themselves available to media during designated locker room sessions.

Before he left the locker room Tuesday, Bennett was asked what led him to his decision to potentially end his NFL career at season’s end.

“Life,” was all he said.