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2017 NFL Free Agency: 10 Players In Line For Huge Paydays

By Erik Lambert

Sep 19, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles strong safety Malcolm Jenkins (27) breaks up a pass intended for Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) during the second half at Soldier Field. Philadelphia won 29-14. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles strong safety Malcolm Jenkins (27) breaks up a pass intended for Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) during the second half at Soldier Field. Philadelphia won 29-14. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 11, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals guard Kevin Zeitler (68) runs on the field before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati defeated Seattle 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 11, 2015; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals guard Kevin Zeitler (68) runs on the field before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati defeated Seattle 27-24. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

Kevin Zeitler (OG, Cincinnati Bengals)

This past off-season has proven that interior offensive line blocking is more coveted than ever before. Kelechi Osemele notched a huge contract from the Raiders and Pro Bowler Kyle Long received an extension from Chicago to the tune of $10 million per year. One can expect Cincinnati Bengals guard Kevin Zeitler to get similar action. He’s been a rock steady member of their front since he was drafted, both as a run blocker and a pass protector.

Given his age and the demand around the league for dependable interior linemen, there is no question that Zeitler will have a considerable market for his services. The question becomes can the Bengals retain him? The answer is yes, if they want to. Current projections have the team at upwards of $43 million in salary cap space. That should be more than enough for them to work out a deal, assuming Zeitler has no desire to take his talents elsewhere.

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