The contract extension of Roger Goodell has been delayed by the debate over players protesting during the national anthem.

Goodell's extension is still expected to be finalized, but the anthem issue has diverted the attention of the NFL.

Goodell's contract might have been completed at last week's owners meeting in New York if not for the issue.

The committee still insists Goodell's deal will be completed, but there is other business that currently is more pressing.

"The anthem issue has overridden everything -- and I do mean everything," one source told ESPN.