FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- This much is undisputable: As of early Tuesday night, New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis still was AWOL, his contract holdout at 24 days. When he reports to the team -- if he reports -- has become the subject of conflicting reports.
Multiple reports have surfaced since Sunday claiming Revis is close to a new contract and will rejoin the Jets this week. The Jets, citing the confidentiality agreement they made two weeks ago with Revis' agents, declined to comment on the reports.
During a lunch break at the NFL owners meeting Wednesday in Atlanta, Jets owner Woody Johnson was asked by ESPN's Sal Paolantonio about reports that the Jets are close to a deal with Revis.
"We've sworn not to talk about it but I don't know where this stuff is coming from. It's not done until it's done," Johnson said.
There are strong indications the two sides aren't close to an agreement. That doesn't preclude Revis from accepting one of the offers on the table and showing up without notice, but based on the hard-line stance conveyed by his agents at the start of training camp, that would represent a dramatic turnaround.
Revis reportedly is seeking $162 million over 10 years, while the Jets have offered $122 million over the same number of years. The Jets also have made a short-term proposal, about $40 million over four years.
Naturally, the Jets would be delighted if Revis shows up, regardless of the deal. They've been trying for six months to sign their All-Pro cornerback to a new contract. On Sunday, The Dallas Morning News reported that Revis was close to a new deal and would report by Wednesday. On Tuesday, the paper reported that Revis' agents were to meet Tuesday night with Jets officials.
There was no meeting scheduled, according to a league source. Also Tuesday, AOL Fanhouse reported that a new contract is "almost there." Another twist in the story: The Morning News said Revis taped a TV interview that will air Wednesday.
On Wednesday, the third episode of HBO's "Hard Knocks" will air. Revis' agents have been flooded with interview requests, but they turned down NFL Films (the producer of "Hard Knocks") early in camp and it's unlikely they changed their minds.
Revis has three years remaining on his contract and wants to become the highest-paid cornerback in the league. He has made $15 million in his first three years and is due to make another $21 million over the next three.
Rich Cimini covers the Jets for ESPNNewYork.com. Follow him on Twitter.