Seahawks DE Michael Bennett 'feeling really defensive MVP-ish'

BELLEVUE, Wa. -- Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett is coming off a career season in which he notched 10 sacks and earned his first Pro Bowl berth.

In 2016, he's setting his sights even higher.

"I'm feeling really defensive MVP-ish right now, the way I've been training, the way that my body feels," Bennett said before hosting an event for his foundation, which focuses on raising awareness for childhood obesity. "I think I've definitely got a chance to be up there with the top guys, to be one of the top defensive players in the NFL. I wouldn't be surprised if I was defensive MVP.

"I think the only difference between me and the top guys is that they made a couple more plays than me. I missed a couple sacks. Those sacks could ultimately put me over the top. If I get 14, 15 sacks, we're talking about a top player in the league. So statistically, quarterback hits, [tackles for loss], everything behind the line of scrimmage, that's what I do. I'm the king of that. So I just want to improve that every year."

Bennett has made it known that he's unhappy with his current contract, which has two years remaining. But he has no plans to hold out of training camp.

General manager John Schneider has indicated that players with one year left on their deals, like wide receiver Doug Baldwin, will take priority. But Bennett said the lines of communication are open in regards to redoing his deal.

"I think they definitely are. I think John's definitely open to it," Bennett said. "Pete [Carroll's] waiting. Obviously, Doug's up before me, and I understand that, and I want that to happen. I think Doug Baldwin deserves a new contract. So do I. So does Kam [Chancellor]. So it's just all about waiting in line and not pushing it too far and understanding what's up next."