Cleveland, OH. (PFCritics) -- The Cincinnati Bengals know how important their offensive line is, and they are making every effort to make sure the group is locked up for a long time. The Bengals signed starting left tackle Levi Jones to a six-year contract extension worth $40 million. The deal, which lasts through 2012, includes $16.3 million in guaranteed money. Jones was entering the final year of his contract.

"The signing of Levi preserves for us another one of our young and talented players," said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis. "Levi has played winning football, and he brings a great attitude of determination to our team."

Jones, who has started in 61 games for the Bengals over the past four seasons, was a first-round pick back in 2002.

The Bengals will try and do the same thing with starting right tackle Willie Anderson and left guard Eric Steinbach. At the moment, both men are entering the final years of their contract.