How Branden Albert signing with the Miami Dolphins affects Anthony Collins

The Cincinnati Bengals effort to keep Anthony Collins may have taken a theoretical hit already.

According to Pro Football Focus, "all signs point" to the Miami Dolphins signing Branden Albert when the start of free agency kicks off on Tuesday afternoon. Albert is Miami's first choice at offensive tackle, with Eugene Monroe, Jared Veldheer and Rodger Saffold in the mix. Anthony Collins was at point listed with passing interest -- though mostly conjecture from Miami beat writers.

The problem is that the Arizona Cardinals, publicly at least, have no known interest among the other free agent offensive tackles, save for Rodger Saffold who plays guard and tackle. Could Carson Palmer's relationship come into play for a cheaper, well-established, strong pass blocking, offensive tackle? Collins would serve that need, reuniting with his former quarterback from Cincinnati and help stabilize the offensive line without taking a chunk out of Arizona's payroll.

UPDATE:

Latest FA infor: #azcardinals very interested Oak LT Jared Veldheer. 3 yrs younger than Albert. prob less expensive.

— Kent Somers (@kentsomers) March 9, 2014

On the other hand, if the Miami Dolphins finalize a deal with Albert, the Cardinals will look at an offensive tackle in the first round of the 2014 NFL draft.

This is the silly season indeed.