Lurking behind the drama of the free-agent market and trade speculation before NFL training camps is the subject of extensions.
One way for franchises to avoid the former is by doing the latter—extending key players before a standoff ensues.
Giving out an early extension is a smart choice for star players who have proved themselves over multiple seasons, if not hinted at higher ceilings. Teams might hesitate to get a new contract done because of factors like injuries, regressions or cap space. But dragging feet could lead to drama, and some players' prices could rise.