Baltimore Ravens, OT Bryant McKinnie ink deal after initial talks collapse – NFL News
The Baltimore Ravens and offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie have survived an inevitable split-up scare following collapse of the deal talks, which had triggered fears of the tackle's waiver, but later the stakeholders returned to the negotiations table to
agree fresh terms of a restructured contract for the player.
As a result of inconclusive initial phase of negotiations, Bryant tweeted to tell the fans that his stay in Baltimore was over, which were rejected by return of both sides to finish the undone business of the deal.
Bryant’s earlier tweets carried the message:
"Decision is made! I'm gone!"
Later, coach John Harbaugh clarified the situation, saying the stakeholders had agreed to resume talks and there was a possibility for them to agree fresh terms of the deal.
Under his previous contract, the OT was due to receive $3.5 million in 2012 but had demanded fresh contract, which now has been signed. Neither of the sides has disclosed terms of it, including value and tenure.
Harbaugh said:
“He's been a part of us. He never left us. I'm excited about Bryant, always have been, just like I told him. I have a lot of respect for him as a football player. I love his style of play. We're going to be a strong offensive line and he's a big part of
it."
The coach denied salary was an issue in the way of smooth progression of talks. According to him:
"Really no concern about that. I don't think it will be an issue at all. He's a great guy, he's a hard worker and he's a pro. He's a Raven and I'm really happy about that. He seems happy about it, too."
Bryant himself is yet to comment on the breakthrough in the deal negotiations and whether his demanded terms have been agreed by the team. He nevertheless has a peace of mind at the contract end and can concentrate on the game.
The OT is crucial to overall offensive scheme of the team and there was a sense of relief among the players when both parties finally found a way out of the deadlock and agreed to the structured deal.
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