Anderson signs through 2011

One of the most popular and valuable Bengals players, right tackle Willie Anderson, will likely retire with the team.

The club announced this afternoon that Anderson had signed a new contract that keeps him with the Bengals through the 2011 season. The five-year extension is worth $32 million, with $20 million coming in the first three years. The deal makes Anderson one of the highest paid right tackles in the NFL, if not the highest paid.

Anderson’s previous contract was due to expire at the end of the 2006 season.

"This is a huge move and commitment on our part and I'm obviously excited about it," said Bengals coach Marvin Lewis. "It's great to know that one of our fine players and real team leaders is committed to be a part of our team for the long term.”

The 11th-year NFL veteran, Anderson was the Bengals’ first-round draft pick in 1996 and has been voted to the last three Pro Bowls.

"This is a special day for me and also for the organization, I hope,” Anderson said. “The Bengals stepped to the plate and allowed me a chance to do what I’ve always wanted to do, which is stay with one organization my entire career."

Earlier in the offseason, the Bengals also signed starting left tackle Levi Jones and starting right guard Bobbie Williams to contract extensions. Since March 2005, eight of 11 offensive starters have received new contracts from the Bengals.

Only center Rich Braham (who is likely to retire), left guard Eric Steinbach and tight end Reggie Kelly remain unsigned after the 2006 season.

In addition to Anderson, Jones and Williams, the Bengals also have offensive starters Carson Palmer, Rudi Johnson, Chad Johnson, T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Jeremi Johnson signed through at least 2008.

The Bengals are traveling by bus this afternoon to Indianapolis, where they will play their fourth and final preseason game Friday night against the Colts at the RCA Dome.