Every reporter "hears things", but in today's environment every tidbit heard by every reporter gets thrown out in a rush to be heard. Best not to get too high or low as these tidbits drip out.
I have no doubt that Shefter heard what he's reporting, but it also could be that Cowher is negotiating. If you know you're wanted do you just take what you're offered without counteroffering? Remember, this is a multimillion dollar deal we're talking about.