Karras was entering the final year of a three-year deal he signed back in 2022, but has now been extended through the 2025 season. The veteran center has appeared in 33 of a possible 34 regular season games since signing with the team, and earned a PFF blocking grade of 67.4 last season, which ranked 15th amongst centers (min. 300 snaps).

Karras, 29 tomorrow, can play either guard or center but figures to slide in at left guard for the Bengals, who are making it a point to upgrade their offensive line early in free agency. Along with Karras, the Bengals also inked ex-Bucs RG Alex Cappa to a multi-year deal Monday. Karras appeared in all 17 games for the Patriots last season, starting 13, and graded out as Pro Football Focus' No. 21 guard out of 137 qualifiers.

Karras signed this exact contract a year ago when he left New England for Miami. He projects to start at center with David Andrews hitting free agency, but he has experience at both guard spots and would be an excellent sixth lineman if the Patriots can find another upgrade. For now, the Patriots have a stellar offensive line and project to be one of the best ground attacks in 2021. Bill Belichick wants to get bigger on offense as the rest of the NFL gets smaller on defense.

After coming over from New England on a one-year contract last offseason, Karras started all 16 games for Miami and was a veteran leader up front for an improved offensive line. Turning 28 next month, Karras made just $3 million last year and is a solid starting pivot. Karras shouldn't command much more than $3-5 million per year.