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Report: Jerry Jones impeding Roger Goodell's contract extension

Matthew Emmons / USA TODAY Sports

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has impeded the progress of NFL commissioner Roger Goodell's contract negotiations, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday on "ESPN Countdown"

"If not for Jerry, this deal would be done," Schefter said.

It was reported on Aug. 21 that Goodell was nearing a five-year extension through 2024. His current contract is set to end in 2019.

However, since then, the commissioner and Jones have been at odds due to the NFL banning Ezekiel Elliott for six games for domestic violence allegations. The running back had the suspension temporarily lifted by a federal judge who granted a request for an injunction.

Schefter and Chris Mortensen added that some owners believe that Goodell will re-sign as commissioner. With Jones acting as the unofficial seventh member of league's six-man competition committee, the Cowboys owner believes Goodell must take a "big reduction" in salary.

However, one source said "there's no way" the Goodell extension happens soon. It was expected to be in place before the regular season.

"Jerry's not saying, 'Don't hire Roger.' He's saying, 'I hate this (proposed) deal, redo it,'" said one source.

Other league sources view the situation as far more volatile, though, telling Schefter that the deteriorating relationship between Goodell and Jones could threaten the commissioner's long-term future.

If Goodell signs a preferable deal for the owners, it's expected to contain incentives to help him reach his previous salary levels. He has earned north of $35 million annually since an extension in 2012.

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