CeeDee Lamb's Triumphant Return to the Cowboys with a $136-Million Extension
The Dallas Cowboys' star receiver CeeDee Lamb is back, and he’s brought with him a fresh four-year, $136-million contract extension. The deal not only boosts his status within the team but also positions him as one of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the NFL, tying with Nick Bosa. This lucrative contract includes an impressive $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus.
During his holdout period, Lamb missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and the training camp in Oxnard, California. Despite the absence, Lamb ensured he stayed in prime condition, working out in Texas and South Florida. Interestingly, he managed to add 15 pounds of muscle during this period, a testament to his dedication and hard work.
Being absent from the team physically didn't mean being disconnected. Through his iPad, Lamb remained in close contact with his teammates and coaches, always staying updated. Fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert recalled, "He was plugged in. I woke up some mornings, and he texts me like 'Good morning bro, have a great day.' Or, he'll tell me about something that happened on the field.”
His return was met with palpable excitement. "We just heard a bunch of cheering, and we turn around, and he's [Lamb] walking through things like 'It's great to be back,'" recounted Tolbert. His teammates celebrated his comeback, with Tolbert adding, "Everyone was like, 'Hey Cee[Dee].' Just having that moment with him after he got what he deserved. We know that he works hard for what he got. So it's special to see a guy like that."
Though Lamb faced difficulties during his holdout, his determination remained unshaken. Reflecting on the period, he said, “I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient.” The process, while challenging, concluded on a positive note. "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south,'" Lamb shared before enthusiastically responding, "Well, where do I sign?"
Mike McCarthy, head coach of the Cowboys, confirmed that Lamb’s role on the team would remain unchanged. “CeeDee's role will not change. He was our premier receiver last year. Our approach with him will be similar. I don't see that changing.” With Lamb’s commitment to the team solidified, he’s ready to give his all on the field. “I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities,” he asserted.
Even during the holdout, Lamb made sure to keep his connection with quarterback Dak Prescott strong. “We got our reps in for sure. The best thing about it, him having a field in his backyard. So anytime I came back home [from training in Florida], it was time [to throw with Prescott],” Lamb noted.
The anticipation of his return created a whirlwind of emotions among fans and within the organization. There was significant anxiety, but as Lamb stated, “We had a businessman conversation. Just had to clear the room. Everything is behind us. I'm not worried about nothing. We got what we needed to get done. Now it's time for me to go ball.”
With his eyes now set firmly on the field, Lamb also highlighted the importance of securing quarterback Dak Prescott’s contract extension. "You look at our numbers together, they're at the top of the charts. I have no doubt that they're going to get a deal done. We all know that I want Dak here. Jerry wants Dak here, too, so let's just get this under control and kill the speculation and let's go win,” he emphasized.
The Ford Center served as the backdrop for Lamb’s reintroduction to the Cowboys—a moment filled with hope and determination. As Lamb puts it, “I can't really put it into words. I tell them I'm grateful to be here every moment of the day. This whole process was very crazy for me, as we all know. Very bittersweet.”
Now, with his contract negotiation settled, Lamb’s focus is entirely on showcasing his enhanced skills and leadership on the field, ready to contribute to the Cowboys’ pursuit of success.