First of all, that is a big "if". Second, even if we are "only" discussing Green's salary of $2.5M, the open question is whether how safe his roster position is safe.
1) Our starters are in place for 2009.
2) Green is likely NOT in the team's 2010 plans. If he were, he could be extended now with the attendant cap savings.
3) Wright has been re-signed to a 3-year contract.
4) LeKevin has been playing OK.
5) We have the opporunity to draft a DL in the 15-35 range of the draft.
STARTERS: Seymour, Wilfork, Warren
BACKUPS: Wright, Smith, Hood/Gilbert/Jackson
What would all say Green's value is to the team in terms of "new" money for 2009 services?
Certainly, that number is lower than $4.8M. If the $2.3 is old money, then the decision with regard to whether Green is worth $2.5M can wait until the pre-season.
If the bonus is already to be paid due to meeting the requirement, then Jarvis will likely play through the end of the season.