Marcus Mariota Contract Stall Sparks More NFL Trade Buzz

May 26, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans first round draft pick quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) passes during OTA drills at Saint Thomas Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

The defining moment that an NFL draft pick becomes untouchable is when he signs on the dotted line of his contract. That is why things are getting rather interesting between the Tennessee Titans and Marcus Mariota. Most believe the lack of progress the two sides are having on the deal has mostly to do with wording. However, a fringe element of theorists believe that silence is indicative of the possibility that Tennessee may be working to trade the young quarterback to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Mark Eckel of NJ.com reflected on the peculiar situation in a recent article.

"“Why the Titans and Mariota haven’t come to terms on a deal is kind of puzzling. Why wouldn’t he get the same basic deal as No. 1 pick Jameis Winston, of Tampa Bay, just a little bit less?It can’t be that difficult a negotiation in these times of slotted picks. That’s why 253 of the 256 are completed. And it could get done by the end of the day. It could just be something as simple as a clause here or there.”"

It was made quite clear that Mariota was all for a reunion with his former coach at Oregon, Chip Kelly who is now in charge of the Philadelphia Eagles. Kelly runs an offensive system that would be tailor-made for the young quarterback with his mix of athleticism, speed and solid arm strength.

It’s also worth noting two key facts about the situation:

The Titans have never backed off their support of quarterback Zach Mettenberger, who was expected to compete with Mariota for the starting job.
The Eagles have dragged their feet in negotiations for extending quarterback Sam Bradford, whom they traded for during the off-season from St. Louis.

It’s probably reading too much into a situation during the most boring part of the year for NFL football. Still, the signs are hard to ignore. Until Marcus Mariota signs that contract to officially become a member of the Tennessee Titans, these rumors will not only continue but gain traction the long this drags on.

Next: RUMOR: Denver Broncos Attempted To Trade Peyton Manning

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