The Dallas Cowboys are approaching the conclusion of their training camp, with the team set to return to Texas. As the new NFL season looms, uncertainties surrounding the contracts of key players Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb remain a focal point. Both athletes have yet to agree to long-term extensions, fueling speculation about whether deals will be finalized before the season opener.
CeeDee Lamb's Contract Scenario
CeeDee Lamb, who was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season, has been a standout on the field. Lamb led the NFL with an impressive 135 receptions last year, underscoring his critical value to the Cowboys' offense. This stellar performance has positioned him as a top priority for the Cowboys' management, with Jerry Jones extending an offer that would make Lamb the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis.
Yet, Lamb has held out from the offseason program to secure a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Jones has been vocal about his intentions, stating, "We wouldn't have offered him what we've offered him if we didn't want him to be here." However, Lamb's contract demands are likely influenced by the market set earlier this offseason by Justin Jefferson, who secured a lucrative four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed.
Dak Prescott's Contract Details
Meanwhile, quarterback Dak Prescott remains a cornerstone for the Cowboys. Leading the NFL with 36 passing touchdowns in 2023, Prescott's current contract is a four-year, $160 million deal that includes both a no-franchise tag and a no-trade clause. Despite these robust terms, negotiations for Prescott's extension continue to be a topic of speculation.
Prescott has opted to delegate contract discussions to his agent, Todd France. Regarding the ongoing talks, Prescott remarked, "There's been conversations back and forth. But for the most part, I let my agent do that. The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Management's Optimism
Jerry and Stephen Jones have openly expressed their desire to retain both Prescott and Lamb. Jerry Jones emphasized the positive tone of the negotiations by saying, "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." Despite the optimism, the uncertainty remains a concern for Cowboys fans as the team prepares for the season.
Upcoming Team Events and Challenges
As the training camp nears its end, the Cowboys are set to host a practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on August 28. The team's first challenge of the season will be against the Cleveland Browns in Week 1. The Browns, who led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game, are expected to provide a formidable test.
Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, will spearhead the Browns' defense. The Cowboys' offense, which led the NFL in scoring last season with 29.9 points per game, will need to be at its best. This season also marks Mike McCarthy's second year as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller, after a successful debut in 2023. McCarthy noted the importance of being prepared, stating, "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."
As the Cowboys gear up for another exciting season, the resolution of contract negotiations for Prescott and Lamb remains a crucial subplot. While Jerry Jones remains hopeful about the outcomes, the clock ticks closer to the season opener, leaving fans and analysts alike eagerly awaiting the final decisions.