Schefter on D&C: CBA issues slow Brady deal

ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter joined the Dennis & Callahan show Monday morning to talk about Tom Brady's contract talks. Schefter is much more optimistic than others who have indicated the QB is unhappy with the Patriots. Schefter said he believes Brady is on schedule to be signed before Colts quarterback Peyton Manning.

"On the basis of everything I've heard this weekend, it sounds like the Patriots and Tom Brady are furthest along at this point in time," Schefter said. "It sounds like something definitely can get wrapped up here this summer." Added Schefter: "I did not get the sense that it is imminent, but I did get the sense it's certainly possible in the next few weeks."

Schefter said he believes concerns about the collective bargaining agreement and how it will affect the salary cap are slowing down the process.

"Were if not for the looming CBA issues, I really believe it would be done right now, the deal," he said. "When you're talking about a huge contract, and you're talking about the type of numbers that Brady's going to make in a year and you don't know what the salary cap is going to be, it's not an easy thing to configure. And I think that right now is probably the big hangup. Because the talks are going on. They seem, from everything I've gathered, to be very cordial. They seem to be on the same page. It's just a question of finalizing it and getting it done."

As for the reports of friction between Brady and the Patriots, Schefter said: "I'm not telling you that it's absolutely perfect and flawless, but from what I've heard, my sense is everything seems to be pretty fine."

To hear the interview, visit the Dennis & Callahan audio on demand page [1]. Check the It Is What It Is blog [2] later this morning for more highlights.