Dallas Cowboys Nearing Key Contract Decisions as Camp Ends
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to wrap up their training camp and return to Texas, the focus shifts from drills and scrimmages to contract negotiations for two of their biggest stars, quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Both players are yet to secure long-term extensions, sparking speculation on whether deals will be finalized before the season kicks off.
CeeDee Lamb's Outstanding 2023 Season
Named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season, CeeDee Lamb's performance on the field has been nothing short of stellar. Leading the NFL with 135 receptions, Lamb's talent and consistent output have set him apart as one of the league's top receivers. However, despite his accomplishments, Lamb has been holding out from the Cowboys' offseason program. His goal: to secure a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract, which concludes in 2024.
Owner Jerry Jones recognizes Lamb's value and has extended an offer that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, just behind Justin Jefferson. Earlier this offseason, Jefferson set the market with a four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]. And when I say that, it doesn't sound too promising. The facts are that I believe we'll come together," Jones stated, expressing confidence that an agreement with Lamb will be reached.
Dak Prescott's Contract Discussions
Quarterback Dak Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, is another cornerstone player the Cowboys are keen to retain. Currently, Prescott is operating under a four-year, $160 million contract, which includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. Despite the lucrative nature of his existing deal, talks of a new extension are ongoing.
"Well again, we're just continuing to talk. The thing is there, since we're really in-season, practicing, doing all those things, we're operating under the existing contract really good," said Jerry Jones. "One of the things that the fans should really understand is that nine times out of 10, these are existing contracts that you have in place. You should be able to operate under those, but we've gotten it now in the NFL -- other teams are dealing with it -- with some time on the contract, you still might have a contract discussion. And that's what we're doing."
Prescott, who has left contract negotiations to his agent Todd France, emphasized his focus remains firmly on the field. "There's been conversations back and forth, but for the most part for me as y'all know, I let my agent (Todd France) do that, especially as we get right here into training camp," Prescott shared. "The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Upcoming Season and Challenges
As the Cowboys gear up for the 2023 NFL season, they will host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. Their first challenge will come against the Cleveland Browns in Week 1. The Browns led the NFL in total defense last season, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. Myles Garrett, named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, will spearhead their defense.
However, the Cowboys' offense, which led the NFL in scoring last season with 29.9 points per game, will look to continue its dominance under the guidance of Mike McCarthy. The 2023 season marked McCarthy's first year as the team's offensive play-caller, a role in which he showcased his strategic prowess.
Reflecting on CeeDee Lamb's return to the fold, McCarthy said, "We have to be smart when he gets here. We're going to ramp up and get the wrinkles, there's always going to be some new wrinkles that I'm sure he's in tune with from a communication standpoint, but he's going to need some reps. Yeah, we'll get that done."
With negotiations underway and optimism in the air, the Dallas Cowboys are poised for an eventful and potentially groundbreaking season. The conversations surrounding Prescott and Lamb underscore the team's commitment to securing a promising future. As Jerry Jones aptly put it, "None of us -- player or team -- want to hurt the preparation or likelihood of playing at your best."