Brandon King Made The Patriots’ Most Memorable Special Teams Play Of The Season
You may have seen the news that the Patriots extended core special teamer Brandon King and raised an eyebrow. Especially considering that he’s making great money for a special teams player – two years for up to $2.6 million – and that he was set to be just a restricted free agent anyway.
But King has been key to the operation on special teams in recent years. His performance helped the unit continue to excel after losing stalwart special teamer Nate Ebner during the 2017 season. And as a reminder, he executed arguably the best special teams play of the season for the Pats – certainly the most memorable.
Granted, the play was more about Chargers wideout Travis Benjamin absolutely losing his mind. But King closed on him perfectly on his punt return to cause a safety. King had perfect timing to dive for Benjamin’s legs and wrap him up while he was fully in the end zone for a no-doubter. And the play came in a tight game at the time, breaking a 7-7 tie in the second quarter.
2.) Uhhh Travis Benjamin, you're going the wrong way there buddy. pic.twitter.com/YIgbLrkJtJ
— What the Sports (@realwtsports) December 29, 2017
Was that one play worth $2.6 million? Well, that’s not the question. But it’s proof that King is capable of making great plays on special teams, despite being, you know, a special teams player.
King will earn base salaries of $775,000 and $925,000 in 2018 and 2019, respectively, according to multiple reports. This is the kind of deal that will get hot-take artists all hot & bothered about ripping the Patriots. But at the end of the day, it’s not going to preclude the team from making bigger deals via trades or free agency – which they’re reportedly trying to do already. Continuity is good, even if it’s “just” for special teams. So, wins all around.
— By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at [email protected].
Sources:
— King news via Field Yates, Adam Schefter
— Salary information via Mark Daniels
— Video via What The Sports