The Dallas Cowboys find themselves on the cusp of the 2024 NFL regular season, set to face the Cleveland Browns in just 18 short days. As the excitement for the new season builds, attention is also zeroing in on the contract situations of two critical players: standout wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and seasoned quarterback Dak Prescott. Both players are approaching the final year of their current deals, and their futures with the Cowboys are hanging in the balance.
CeeDee Lamb's Contract Standoff
CeeDee Lamb, at 25, has become a linchpin for the Cowboys' offense. On the verge of completing his rookie contract, Lamb has already made a significant impact, leading the league with 135 catches last season. This remarkable performance has set high expectations for his next deal.
However, Lamb has notably held out of Dallas' entire offseason program as contract negotiations continue. The Cowboys have extended an offer "slightly under $33 million per season" to Lamb. For context, Philadelphia Eagles' receiver A.J. Brown is pulling in an average annual salary of $32 million, while Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings signed a massive four-year, $140 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic about reaching an agreement with Lamb, stating, "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]." Jones further added, "The facts are that I believe we'll come together. I don't want to speak for him. That's what I'm trying not to do. But we wouldn't have offered him what we've offered him if we didn't want him to be here." It's clear the Cowboys value Lamb highly and are keen to keep him, but the exact terms of their offer will play a crucial role in whether Lamb takes the field without contractual distractions.
The Dak Prescott Dilemma
Dak Prescott, turning 31 this offseason, is also at a pivotal juncture with the Cowboys. His current four-year, $160 million contract, which includes a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause, is nearing its end. As Prescott approaches unrestricted free agency next offseason, the Cowboys are under pressure to secure their star quarterback's services for the long term.
Jones acknowledged the ongoing discussions with Prescott, saying, "Well again, we're just continuing to talk." He emphasized that both parties are focusing on maintaining their performance during the season, despite the contract situation. "The thing is there, since we're really in-season, practicing, doing all those things, we're operating under the existing contract really good. One of the things that the fans should really understand is that nine times out of ten, 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. None of us -- player or team -- want to hurt the preparation or likelihood of playing at your best."
Prescott has been a reliable presence for the Cowboys, and his contract negotiations will likely set a tone for the team's long-term strategy. With no-franchise-tag and no-trade clauses in play, the Cowboys and Prescott must find common ground to avoid any potential disruptions to their game plan.
Balancing Performance and Negotiation
As the Cowboys edge closer to their season opener, balancing performance with ongoing contract negotiations for Lamb and Prescott remains a delicate task. Jones' confidence and commitment to both players underline the importance of securing these key assets, which will likely define the Cowboys' prospects not just this season, but for years to come.
While the Cowboys' loyal fanbase eagerly awaits the resolution of these contract talks, the team's immediate focus must remain on the field. With Lamb and Prescott as cornerstones of the franchise, their performances and eventual contract decisions will be pivotal in shaping the Cowboys' success in 2024 and beyond. As Jones and the Cowboys' front office navigate these complex negotiations, one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher for America's Team.