The Dallas Cowboys are approaching their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns, with just 18 days remaining. With the kickoff fast approaching, attention is firmly on the crucial contract situations of two of the team's standout stars: First Team All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and Second Team All-Pro quarterback Dak Prescott.
CeeDee Lamb’s Contract Situation
CeeDee Lamb, the 25-year-old wide receiver who topped the league with an impressive 135 catches last season, is at the end of his rookie contract. Despite his vital contributions to the team, Lamb has been holding out of Dallas' entire offseason program. The Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb, reportedly "slightly under $33 million per season." Comparatively, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown’s average annual salary stands at $32 million. Meanwhile, Justin Jefferson recently signed a lucrative four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, including a staggering $110 million guaranteed.
In addressing Lamb's contract status, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones remarked. He 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." Despite the ongoing negotiation, Jones appears to believe a resolution is on the horizon. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk," he stated.
Dak Prescott’s Future with the Cowboys
Dak Prescott is entering the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract that includes significant stipulations such as a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. Now 31, Prescott might enter unrestricted free agency next offseason if a new agreement isn't reached, a prospect that undoubtedly puts pressure on both sides to come to terms.
Jerry Jones shed light on the context in which these discussions are taking place. "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," Jones explained.
As the season's start is imminent, the Cowboys are navigating the complex dynamics of securing their top talents while ensuring their focus remains on the field. Both Lamb and Prescott are integral to the team's success, making their contract situations a top priority for the organization. Jerry Jones' communication suggests confidence, but the tangible outcomes of these negotiations will be pivotal for the franchise’s immediate and future aspirations.
The Cowboys' fans and stakeholders will undoubtedly be watching closely as the team attempts to balance the demands of contract negotiations with the preparation for a challenging NFL season. The resolution of these contract situations will significantly influence the dynamics of the team and its capacity to compete at the highest level. For now, the anticipation continues as the Cowboys edge closer to their season opener and the ongoing quest for stability and success both on and off the field.