Cowboys Gear Up for Season Amid Contract Uncertainties
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to wrap up their training camp and return to Texas, the franchise faces a critical juncture with key players still unsigned to long-term extensions. Quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb are the focus of much speculation, as the Cowboys aim to secure their futures before the season begins.
Both Jerry and Stephen Jones have expressed their intent to retain Prescott and Lamb, with Jerry 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."
Prescott's Contract Situation
Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns last season with 36, is currently under a four-year, $160 million contract that includes no-franchise and no-trade clauses. Despite these provisions, the Cowboys are keen to extend his stay in Dallas. Prescott has largely left contract negotiations to his agent, Todd France. "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," Prescott said. "The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Lamb's Breakout Season and Contract Concerns
On the other hand, CeeDee Lamb, who led the NFL with 135 receptions in the 2023 season and earned first-team All-Pro honors, is holding out for a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Jerry Jones has reportedly extended an offer to Lamb that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, trailing only Justin Jefferson, who set a new market standard with a four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed earlier this offseason.
Mike McCarthy's Offensive Success
The Cowboys' offense, which led the NFL in scoring last season with an average of 29.9 points per game, is another significant storyline. 2023 marked head coach Mike McCarthy's first season as the offensive play-caller. McCarthy commented on Lamb's situation, saying, "We have to be smart when he gets here. We're going to ramp up and get the wrinkles...but he's going to need some reps."
Upcoming Events
The Cowboys are slated to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. They open their season against the Cleveland Browns in Week 1, a team that boasted the NFL's top defense last year, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The game will also pit Dallas' high-octane offense against Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Jerry Jones addressed the contract situation delicately, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the existing contracts to ensure no distractions disrupt the team's preparation. "None of us -- player or team -- want to hurt the preparation or likelihood of playing at your best."
As the new season looms, the contracts of Prescott and Lamb remain hot topics. Even with the pending uncertainties, the Cowboys are set to enter the season with high expectations, banking on strong performances from key players and the leadership of McCarthy.