Cowboys Edge Closer to Season Opener Amid Contract Tensions
As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their 2024 NFL season opener against the Cleveland Browns, looming contract issues concerning two of their star players – CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott – have taken center stage.
With just 18 days left before the season kicks off, the focus is intensifying on these pivotal figures in the Cowboys' lineup. First Team All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and Second Team All-Pro quarterback Dak Prescott are both entering the final year of their respective deals, casting an air of uncertainty over Dallas' preparations.
CeeDee Lamb: The Emerging Star
CeeDee Lamb, who has quickly become one of the league’s top receivers, is wrapping up his rookie contract at the age of 25. Lamb had a breakout season last year, leading the league with 135 catches. However, his contract situation has become a point of contention as the Cowboys work to secure his future with the team.
It hasn't gone unnoticed that Lamb has held out of Dallas' entire offseason program, likely in an effort to negotiate a more lucrative deal. The Cowboys extended an offer to Lamb, reportedly "slightly under $33 million per season." This figure positions him just above Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown’s average annual salary of $32 million but still leaves room for negotiation, especially when considering the four-year, $140 million extension – including $110 million guaranteed – recently signed by Minnesota Vikings’ star Justin Jefferson.
Dak Prescott: A Quarterback in Limbo
Meanwhile, Dak Prescott is in the final season of his four-year, $160 million contract, which includes a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. Having turned 31 this offseason, Prescott is potentially on the verge of becoming an unrestricted free agent if a new agreement isn’t reached.
The Cowboys face a significant decision: secure their franchise quarterback for the future or risk losing him to free agency. Team discussions have been ongoing, but no definitive resolution has been made yet.
Jerry Jones Weighs In
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains cautiously optimistic about retaining both Lamb and Prescott. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones stated. His confidence reflects the team's willingness to resolve these contract disputes amicably.
Addressing Lamb’s situation, Jones explained, "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." This sentiment underscores the Cowboys' intent to keep Lamb as a key component of their offensive arsenal.
In discussing the broader implications of contract negotiations during the season, Jones remarked, "Well again, we're just continuing to talk." He elaborated further, "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 Season Preparations
The Cowboys' strategy in handling these negotiations will play a crucial role in their season trajectory. Both Lamb and Prescott are integral to Dallas' offense, and their contract statuses could impact team dynamics and performance.
As Dallas prepares for their opener against the Browns, the resolution of these contract discussions could set the tone for the season ahead. The hope is that both Lamb and Prescott remain key pillars in their pursuit of NFL glory, but only time will tell how these negotiations unfold.