Jamal Lewis plea deal could include jail time after season

The source disputed a report in The (Baltimore) Sun on Saturday that said a deal had been reached.

Lewis attorney Jerome Froelich and acting U.S. Attorney Sally Yates declined to comment.

Last week, Froelich said he was preparing for trial. But in recent days, talks have apparently intensified as Lewis' defense team has sought to avoid a suspension by the NFL and a trial that could lead to a mandatory minimum 10-year prison sentence if Lewis is convicted of conspiracy.

Kevin Byrne, a spokesman for the Ravens, said Lewis has done a good job staying focused on football amid the charges.

"Jamal's focus in his job with the Ravens has been excellent all year," he said. "Obviously he's had this hanging over his head all season."

Ravens coach Brian Billick said Saturday that talk of a plea deal has at least brought the possibility of closure.

"As we move along, the more we can bring specific definition to it, the better it is both for him personally and for this team," Billick said.

The coach urged caution in judging Lewis.

"I would caution everybody before you cast judgment -- and I know you will anyway -- that you wait until all of the facts and all the proceedings," Billick said. "And it may take awhile."

Lewis, meanwhile, said the case won't affect his preparation for the Ravens' Monday night game against Kansas City.

"This is what I do," Lewis said. "This is my life. This is my career. That pretty much says it all."