The Dallas Cowboys are on the cusp of concluding their training camp as they prepare to return to Texas. However, the team faces several uncertainties, particularly concerning the contract statuses of key players, quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Lamb and Prescott have yet to secure long-term extensions, a situation that has been closely monitored and speculated upon. The Jones family, who are at the helm of the Cowboys, have emphasized their commitment to retaining both star players. Jerry Jones has extended a lucrative offer to Lamb, which would position him as the second-highest-paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, just behind Justin Jefferson’s recent four-year, $135 million extension that includes $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," Jerry Jones remarked, offering a glimpse into the ongoing negotiations. He further elaborated, "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."
CeeDee Lamb's Stellar Season and Holdout
CeeDee Lamb had an extraordinary season in 2023, marked by his recognition as a first-team All-Pro wide receiver. Leading the NFL with 135 receptions, Lamb has emerged as an indispensable part of the Cowboys' offense. His remarkable performance has placed him in a strong negotiating position as he seeks a contract extension beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
The wide receiver’s decision to hold out of the Cowboys' offseason program underlines the urgency for a new deal. The Cowboys' front office acknowledges Lamb’s value and are keen to finalize an agreement. "We have to be smart when he gets here," said head coach Mike McCarthy. "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."
Dak Prescott's Leadership and Contract Situation
Dak Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns last season with 36, is in the midst of his four-year, $160 million contract. This contract includes both a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, demonstrating the Cowboys' commitment to their franchise quarterback. As he enters the critical phase of the training camp, Prescott has entrusted his agent, Todd France, to handle the contract negotiations. "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 said. "Day 1 of training camp, my mind flips to obviously helping my team and just doing everything I can within the organization and on the football field to make sure that I'm my best and everyone around me is their best. The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Team Preparations and Upcoming Challenges
The Cowboys' preparations are set against the backdrop of several key events. They are scheduled to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. The team will then face the Cleveland Browns in Week 1 of the NFL season.
This matchup will pit the Cowboys' high-flying offense against a formidable Browns defense that led the NFL in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The Browns' defensive prowess is further underscored by Myles Garrett, who was named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
The Cowboys, led by head coach Mike McCarthy as the offensive play-caller for the first time last season, boast an offense that led the NFL in scoring with 29.9 points per game. The upcoming clash between these two units promises to be a fiercely contested battle, potentially setting the tone for the season ahead.
As the Cowboys inch closer to the start of the season, the resolutions of Prescott's and Lamb's contracts remain pivotal. Their finalization could provide a much-needed boost, ensuring the team is well-positioned to build on their offensive success and navigate the challenges of the new season.