Chiefs Acquire Bennett in Trade

They say actions speak louder than words and the Kansas City Chiefs spoke loud and clear about the future of Priest Holmes and his ability to come back from his career-threatening injuries.

Chiefs GM Carl Peterson pulled the trigger Tuesday night on a deal with the New Orleans Saints to acquire running back Michael Bennett for an undisclosed future draft choice.

The subject of considerable trade talk ever since the Saints chose Reggie Bush in the first round of the draft, Bennett will become the primary backup to starter Larry Johnson. The absence of Holmes, and the possibility that he might be forced to retire because of head and neck injuries sustained last season, left the Chiefs thin at the position.

Holmes was placed on the physically unable to perform list before the opening of training camp and will likely remain there in the future.

Numerous teams inquired about Bennett, most recently the St. Louis Rams, who have lost Marshall Faulk for the season and possibly for good. Rams coach Scott Linehan worked with Bennett when he was offensive coordinator for three seasons with the Vikings.

Before signing with the Saints, Bennett played all five previous seasons with the Vikings, who chose him in the first round of the 2001 draft. The former University of Wisconsin star was the draft's 27th overall selection that year. Bennett went to the Pro Bowl in 2002 after rushing for 1,296 yards and five touchdowns.

For his career, Bennett has 713 carries for 3,174 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also has 126 receptions for 1,040 yards and five scores. Bennett has appeared in 64 games, starting 49.


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