As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns, the spotlight has shifted to the contract negotiations of two pivotal players—CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott. With just 18 days remaining until kickoff, these contract discussions have become a central focus for the franchise.
Contract Negotiations Intensify
The Dallas Cowboys face significant decisions as both CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott are entering the final year of their current contracts. CeeDee Lamb, the 25-year-old wide receiver who led the league with 135 catches last season, is wrapping up his rookie contract. Lamb has notably held out of Dallas' entire offseason program, signaling the importance he places on securing a new deal.
Reports suggest the Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb "slightly under $33 million per season." Comparatively, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown’s average annual salary stands at $32 million, while Justin Jefferson recently inked a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, featuring $110 million guaranteed.
On the other hand, Dak Prescott is in the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract. The 31-year-old quarterback’s contract includes a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause, ensuring that without a new agreement, Prescott may become an unrestricted free agent next offseason.
Jerry Jones' Perspective
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has expressed optimism about the ongoing negotiations, though he remains measured in his public comments. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones stated. He further elaborated on the organization's commitment to retaining Lamb, saying, "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."
Jones also addressed the broader context of these negotiations, noting the unique pressures the NFL season imposes. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk," he said, adding, "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."
Impact on Team Dynamics
The potential outcomes of these negotiations are significant for the Cowboys' future. CeeDee Lamb’s performance on the field has established him as one of the league's elite wide receivers, and his continued presence would be vital to the team's offensive strategy. Similarly, Prescott's role as the team's quarterback makes his contract situation crucial for the Cowboys’ stability and success moving forward.
The anxiety around these negotiations is palpable among fans and analysts, as securing long-term deals for both players could solidify the Cowboys’ core for years to come. However, the uncertainty remains, and each passing day brings the regular season closer, intensifying the urgency for resolutions.
In summary, while the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their imminent clash with the Cleveland Browns, the contract situations of CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott loom large over the franchise. Jerry Jones’ cautious optimism provides some reassurance, but the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether the Cowboys can retain their star talents or face an uncertain future.