Cincinnati Bengals free agency 2018: Top 5 targets

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PITTSBURGH, PA – NOVEMBER 1: Offensive lineman Andre Smith No. 71 of the Cincinnati Bengals looks on from the sideline during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on November 1, 2015 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Bengals defeated the Steelers 16-10. (Photo by George Gojkovich/Getty Images) /

4. player. 56. . OG. Cincinnati Bengals. Andre Smith

After spending his first seven years in the Queen City, offensive guard Andre Smith signed a one-year deal to play for the 2016 Minnesota Vikings. Well, Smith didn’t last too long in the Twin Cities, as he came back to the Bengals on a one-year deal worth $3,250,000 in 2017.

Though Smith will be 31 years old in his 10th year in the league, the Bengals know what they are getting out of Smith at guard. It’s not like the Bengals were all that great up front in 2017 anyway. That being said, the guard market was much more enticing in free agency an offseason ago. The Bengals are probably best holding serve at the position and bringing Smith back on another contract.

But how much and how long will be the deciding factors on if Smith gets nine or more professional seasons in the Queen City. The Bengals have cap space to offer Smith at or above market value for at least two years or so. Keep in mind that it is easier to win with a veteran offensive lineman than a guy fresh out of college.

Given that Smith has played the bulk of his NFL career with the Bengals, he might be willing to take a bit of a hometown discount for the sake of a longer deal if that means the Bengals front office can provide more talent elsewhere on the roster. Letting Smith walk might end up being something the Bengals regret, so hopefully they’ll try to bring their long-time interior offensive lineman back in 2018.

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