Marcus Mariota has not signed a contract and speculation has focused on offset language as the reason for the holdup. Now there's another possible snag in his negotiations with the Tennessee Titans.



Surfing.



According to endzonescore.com, Mariota - who is the only unsigned first-round pick - is balking at the Titans including a clause that forbids him from surfing.



Many teams include language that prohibits players from engaging in activities that could result in a catastrophic injury, such as surfing, skiing, motorcycle riding, waterskiing, skydiving or skateboarding. Teams invest millions of dollars on star players and have millions of dollars riding on the player remaining healthy and being able to perform.



Surfing can be dangerous and the Titans apparently don't want the second overall pick of the 2015 NFL draft and their franchise cornerstone taking unnecessary risks.



On the other hand, Mariota is a native of Hawaii, where surfing is a national sport. Mariota knows how to surf, but he has said he's more of a body boarder. The report also explains why surfing would be good for Mariota in terms of muscle relaxation and rehabilitation. In addition, surfing can help Mariota unwind by allowing him to get away from the pressures of being the face of the Titans franchise.



The issue of allowing Mariota to surf as a point of contention could be in addition to the offset language. The Titans want to include offset language in Mariota's contract, allowing them to recoup some of the guaranteed money if Mariota signs with another team after three seasons.



Despite these reported obstacles, Mariota is expected to sign a contract eventually. The Titans have way too much invested in the rookie quarterback, who has generated a buzz around the franchise for the first time in many years.



Ideally, Mariota signs a contract before the beginning of training camp so he can continue to develop and prepare himself for the regular season.

-- Geoffrey C. Arnold | @geoffreyCarnold