Is there a world in which we don't extend Karlaftis?

[Dante84]

Looking ahead to '26....

FWIW - I think we probably do keep/extend him. But I think there's at least a discussion to be had. I also think we'll have more clarity after the draft as to Veach's thinking here as well.


The "Keep" reasons:
- He's still a young, homegrown dude at a premium position - tough to let those dude's walk.
- When he's on, he's on.
- Good teammate, fan favorite.
- FAU has not developed well enough to backfill or exceed GK's production.

The "Explore other options" reasons:
- He's great, but not elite - yet. And he might ask for "elite" money.
- McDuffie will need to get paid (hopefully this year, early).
- How much of his production is tied to Chris Jones success?
- What could we get in exchange for him via tag and trade next season?
- What would that cap space allow us to do?


(What prompted this - Obviously the Bengals are stupid for letting Trey Hendrickson out the door. But GK is not TH. Got me thinking.)