[BrudLee]

The problem with signing Cooley long-term is you risk alienating Sean Taylor - who also deserves a long-term deal (based on his on-field behavior), but isn't likely to get one until his off-field troubles are behind him.

Compare the situation with the Eagles of last year (loathe as I am to praise them). While Owens was demanding a new deal, no contract extensions were signed. Once he was taken off the board, Westbrook and Akers both got extensions. Signing either of those players while Owens was making waves would have caused problems. Once he wasn't an issue, the signings were rapidly completed.