The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns with just 18 days to go. As anticipation builds for the new season, the focus has also intensified on the contract situations of two key players: First Team All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and Second Team All-Pro quarterback Dak Prescott. Both players are entering the final year of their current deals, creating an urgency for the Cowboys to secure their futures with the franchise.
The Lamb Negotiations
CeeDee Lamb, at just 25 years old, is wrapping up his rookie contract after a stellar season in which he led the league with 135 catches. Despite his impressive performance, Lamb has held out of Dallas’ entire offseason program so far, a move that underscores the importance he places on securing a lucrative extension. Reports indicate that the Cowboys have extended an offer "slightly under $33 million per season" to Lamb. This offer aims to position him competitively against other top wide receivers, such as Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown, who has an average annual salary of $32 million, and Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings, who signed a four-year, $140 million extension including $110 million guaranteed.
Team owner Jerry Jones seems optimistic about reaching an agreement with Lamb. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones stated. He 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."
Prescott’s Contract Dilemma
Meanwhile, Dak Prescott is in the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract, which includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. At 31 years old, Prescott’s future with the Cowboys is also hanging in the balance. If a new agreement isn’t reached, he may enter unrestricted free agency next offseason, a scenario the Cowboys are undoubtedly keen to avoid.
Jerry Jones provided some insight into the ongoing negotiations with Prescott: "Well again, we're just continuing to talk." He emphasized the importance of focusing on the current season while navigating contract discussions, "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."
Implications for the Season
The resolution of these contract situations will undoubtedly impact the Cowboys' performance this season. Securing Lamb and Prescott for the long term could solidify the team's core and boost morale. Conversely, failing to come to terms with either player could lead to distractions and potential disruptions during the season. For now, Cowboys fans can take some solace in Jones' confidence and the ongoing negotiations, hoping that agreements will be reached for both pivotal players.
As the countdown to the season opener continues, all eyes will remain on the developments in Dallas. The outcome of these negotiations could have lasting impacts not only on the team's success this year but also on the franchise's long-term prospects.