Here’s what it could cost to keep Mike Hilton

The slot corner is still one of the most physical players in the game.

When Mike Hilton came to the Cincinnati Bengals from the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021, there was a sense that he would bring much-needed grit to the defensive backfield.

Needless to say, he has done that and more since arriving.

This season, at the age of 30, Hilton was still one of the most physical cornerbacks in the game.

And he continues to be an elite run defender with a run defense grade of 91.7, according to Pro Football Focus.

Not only that, but the 5-foot-9, 184-pound corner is also a fantastic blitzer.

There seems to be no sign of Hilton, so the Bengals might be considering bringing him back after his contract expires this offseason.

So, what would it take to re-sign the veteran corner?

According to Pro Football Focus, Hilton should command about $11 million per year on a three-year deal with $20 million guaranteed. He is listed as the 35th best free agent available.

Meanwhile, Over the Cap has his valuation at just $5.25 million with his average per year being around $6 million. That, of course, doesn’t capture the nuances that go into a contract but rather how valuable his performances were this past season.

Ultimately, Hilton’s deal getting done will take a backseat to extensions for Tee Higgins, Ja’Marr Chase, and Trey Hendrickson. If there is significant money left after those contracts are explored, Cincinnati will probably be more open to bringing Hilton back.

The Bengals made a valiant effort to get into the playoffs but fell just short.

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