Andrew Whitworth is a big fish on the free-agent market, and the Denver Broncos will attempt to reel him in.

Per multiple reports, the Broncos are "clearly" expected to show interest in the Bengals' stalwart offensive tackle, who's set to hit the open market March 9.

That is, unless Paul Brown gets to him first.

In an interview with SiriusXM Radio on Monday, Whitworth reaffirmed his long-stated intention on reupping with the Bengals.

"I love Cincinnati and I want to be there," Whitworth said, via NJ.com. "I'm pretty positive that things will work out in a way that I'll be there again."

But the 35-year-old is hedging his bets, as well. Whitworth's window to win a championship (or a playoff game) is closing fast and he may want to see if the proverbial grass is greener elsewhere.

"I want to take advantage of the opportunity of being free and listen to what other people have to say," Whitworth said, via NJ.com. "I think that's the right way to do it. I'm talking to the (Bengals). Hopefully we're going to work something out and for sure be back as a Bengal. That's where I'd love to end my career and love that opportunity to do that. But I also think it's smart to at least listen to other opportunities and make sure that you have your heart in the right place."

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The top available lineman in a surprisingly deep free-agent class, Whitworth will command big money no matter where he signs. He's missed only two games in the past eight seasons, during which he was named to the Pro Bowl three times (2012, 2015, 2016). He also was selected as a first-team All-Pro in 2015.

In Denver, the 6-foot-7, 330-pound tackle would instantly become the club's best blocker. He'd be a huge upgrade -- figuratively and literally -- on Russell Okung, who's unlikely to return for a second season in 2017. Pro Football Focus rated Whitworth as the NFL's No. 2 OT, behind only Washington's Trent Williams. Okung was rated No. 38.

The Broncos should boast over $40 million in salary cap space, so they'll be able to accommodate his financial wants. The club reportedly will try to wrangle "at least" one O-lineman, their biggest area of need, when the signing period kicks off.

Whitworth would be a helluva start.

Follow Zack Kelberman on Twitter: @Kelberman247