Disagree on both fronts. I think last year he was an ascending player and was above avg. Pro-bowler? No, but I feel he has it in him. With better play next to him, a (potentially) better scheme fit, and better overall talent around him...he could get there. No guarantees of course, but he has the tools to get there.
Then you add in versatility. He can play 4 spots if necessary. He can play LT and LG to at least an average level. As a matter of fact, he played LG quite well when pressed into duty. I want to say it was KC, but he totally neutralized their best player. Might have been Chris Jones. Going by memory at this point.
So, you've got an ascending player who is scheme and position versatile on a team that is now in it's ascending phase, and the guy is still plenty young.
After the season, he's a total FA. You want to take that chance? I don't. If I'm tricky Nicky, I'm locking that bad boy up now if possible, or sometime during camp. I'd do whatever I could to make it happen within reason. It's going to cost you a lot more after the season, when the other suitors come calling. Why do you want the bidding war?