The Buffalo Bills likely won't let their standout linebacker Tremaine Edmunds test the open market without a fight. But as the free agency period approaches, getting him to stay is a different story.
Through some potential contract restructuring - like Sunday's two-year extension of linebacker Matt Milano - or other cap-freeing moves, the Bills will likely do all they can to keep Edmunds, but even their best may not be enough.
Per reports from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Edmunds could receive a contract in the range of about $20 million per year, which would put his potential deal in the range of some of the league's top linebackers.
And per additional reports from NFL Network's Mike Giardi, "a number of teams" could be willing to give him this kind of contract.
"Based on conversations I had at the scouting combine, I would expect a number of teams to be heavily involved with LB Tremaine Edmunds, including the only team he's ever played for, the Bills," Giardi tweeted Sunday. "The feeling is his best football is still ahead of him, despite being good already."
Edmunds, 24, has certainly earned himself a major raise while arguably being one of the league's most underrated linebackers.
It's safe to say that Edmunds deserves it after the season he had, which makes it sting even more for the Bills if he does indeed leave.
Another solid season under his belt couldn't have been more timely with free agency approaching. Despite only playing in 13 games, Edmunds led the Bills in total tackles (102) while adding a sack, seven passes defended and an interception.
His ability to drop back into pass coverage flashed brightest in the postseason, as Edmunds total four passes defended in the win over the Miami Dolphins in the AFC Wild Card on Jan. 15. He followed this up by leading the Bills with 12 total tackles in the 27-10 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday in the AFC Divisional.
The next week - one that might be hard for Bills Mafia to swallow - will be big in determining Edmunds' future in Orchard Park.
You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7
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