Can New England Patriots Match a Potential Offer to BenJarvus Green-Ellis?

If it comes down to a bidding war for running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, expect the New England Patriots to bow out quickly.

And with recent news from Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports, it looks like the Patriots have a heavyweight contender on their hands in that regard.

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RB green-Ellis to visit Cincy

— Jason Cole (@JasonColeYahoo) March 14, 2012

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The Cincinnati Bengals had an estimated $49.9 million of cap space, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. Add to that the extra $1.6 million each team got as a result of the Redskins' and Cowboys' front-loading contracts last year, and it becomes clear that the Bengals have what it takes to make a case to sign The Law Firm.

Green-Ellis' impending free agency was clearly on New England's mind when they drafted both Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley in the 2011 NFL Draft. The presence of the two young running backs gives New England an extra bargaining tool to retain him at their price, but how far above that are they willing to go if Cincinnati makes a real push for him?

His production can't be ignored, especially since New England has relied on him so heavily the past two years, even more so at the goal line. His 24 touchdowns in that span are third, only to Tom Brady (75) and Rob Gronkowski (28). 

His most valuable asset is his ball security; he's never fumbled in his career. Patriots followers remember all too well the issues of Laurence Maroney, who fumbled the ball in several key spots in 2009.

For the value he'll have in the offense, though, Green-Ellis would likely offer more to the Bengals than the Patriots.

Follow @ErikFrenz