With just a few hours until the 2010 regular season opens, contract extension talks between the New England Patriots and star quarterback Tom Brady are said to be moving along. Reports that an extension is "imminent" sounds promising, considering previous claims of "a disconnect" between Brady and the team.
The Boston Herald was the first to report on the big news this morning, citing an inside source who claimed Brady was offered a three-year extension worth around $58 million, or about $19.3 million per year.
Those figures were soon shot down by other media outlets, including ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter. While Schefter agreed that a deal was expected before the Patriots begin their season, he predicted a four-year contract worth between $18 and $20 million per year for a total value in the $72 and $80 million range.
Be it for three or four years, the good news is that it looks like the deal will be signed before New England opens their 2010 campaign against the Bengals. With the distractions out of the way, Brady can focus on the tough schedule ahead.
While Brady's contract talks are heating up, another Patriot is speaking out on his own slowed negotiations. That person just happens to be Brady's top receiver, Randy Moss, who is entering the final year of his three-year contract.
Talking with William Bendetson of CBSSports.com on Monday, Moss noted, "I am taking that in stride and playing my final year out and whatever the future holds is what it holds, but it is kind of a bad feeling--feeling not wanted. It is not like my production has gone down."
Bill Belichick had nothing for praise for Moss in an interview, citing Moss' professionalism and passion for the game. The Patriots coach declined to comment on the contract talks, unaware of any major issues.
The Patriots have their work cut out for them, both in the front office and on the field, as the 2010 season kicks off at home this Sunday. New England hosts Cincinnati at 1:00 p.m. EST at Gillette Field.
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