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The Arizona Cardinals got more than they are paying for with defensive lineman Tommy Kelly.
Kelly, signed to a one-year, $955,000 contract after being cut by the New England Patriots, has played a lot and well for the Cardinals.
According to Fox Sports Radio 910's Mike Jurecki, the team are opening to signing him to a contract extension during the season.
His versatility and energy have been a big part of why the rush defense remains in the top five in the league, despite losing Darnell Dockett for the season, Calais Campbell for a couple of games and linebacker Matt Shaughnessy until December.
So far in 2014, he has 15 tackles. But as stats go for the Cardinals defensive linemen not named Calais Campbell, the stats usually don't show up because their job is to keep the linebackers clean so they can make tackles.
Kelly can play any position on the defensive line.
Among the defensive linemen, Campbell's contract is taken care of. Darnell Dockett has one more year, although his contract will come up as a topic of discussion because of his high cap number. Dan Williams will be a free agent after the season. Alameda Ta'amu will be a restricted free agent. Frostee Rucker has one year remaining on his deal. Ed Stinson and Kareem Martin are on rookie deals.
At 33 years old, Kelly he is the oldest player on the line, topping Dockett by about five months.
Should Kelly get a contract extension and, of so, how much should the Cardinals pay and for how long?