Dallas Cowboys Prepare for the Season Amid Contract Speculations
As the Dallas Cowboys wrap up their training camp, anticipation builds in the Lone Star state with the team returning to Texas. Among the poignant points of discussion are the contract situations of key players—quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Contract Concerns
Despite Jerry and Stephen Jones’ transparent intentions to retain both Prescott and Lamb, neither player has secured a long-term extension. The lack of finalized deals has sparked considerable speculation about whether agreements will be reached before the regular season kicks off.
Jerry Jones has remained optimistic about the ongoing negotiations, stating, "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." This reflects a balance between confidence and the realistic complexities of negotiation.
Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns with 36 in 2023, is currently bound to a four-year, $160 million contract that includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. Trusting his representation to manage discussions, Prescott remarked, "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."
Lamb's Standout Seasons and Stance
On the other hand, CeeDee Lamb's impressive performance has made his contract situation a hot topic. Named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season, Lamb led the NFL with 135 receptions. He has notably held out from the Cowboys' offseason program to secure a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
Jerry Jones has confirmed an offer extended to Lamb that could make him the second-highest paid wide receiver based on average annual value. "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," Jones stated.
Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings reset the wide receiver market earlier this offseason with a four-year, $135 million extension, which included $110 million guaranteed. This market shift underscores the financial stakes involved in securing Lamb's future in Dallas.
Team Dynamics and Upcoming Events
The Cowboys’ offensive prospects look promising as they led the NFL in scoring last season, averaging 29.9 points per game under Mike McCarthy's first season as the offensive play-caller. McCarthy has also acknowledged the importance of CeeDee Lamb's participation, 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. Yeah, we'll get that done."
The Cowboys' immediate schedule includes a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. Their first regular season game will be against the Cleveland Browns, who led the NFL in total defense last season, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. Myles Garrett, the Browns' defensive end, was named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, setting up a compelling matchup.
The Bigger Picture
Jerry Jones aimed to reassure fans about the ongoing negotiations. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk. The thing is there, since we're really in-season, practicing, doing all those things, we're operating under the existing contract really good," Jones explained. He emphasized the evolving nature of contracts in the NFL, noting, "One of the things that the fans should really understand is that nine times out of 10, 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."
As the Cowboys gear up for another intensive season, much focus will be on finalizing deals with Prescott and Lamb, ensuring that two of their brightest stars remain integral parts of their future success. For now, the Cowboys and their fans remain hopeful that both contracts will be resolved, allowing the team to fully concentrate on delivering a stellar performance on the field.