The Dallas Cowboys are rapidly gearing up for their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns, with just 18 days remaining. However, as the countdown continues, the spotlight is sharply focused on the contract situations of two of their stars: First Team All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and Second Team All-Pro quarterback Dak Prescott. Both players are poised to enter the final year of their current deals, placing pressure on the Cowboys' front office to secure their futures.
CeeDee Lamb: A Rising Star at a Crossroads
CeeDee Lamb, only 25 years old, is swiftly establishing himself as a premier receiver in the NFL. He concluded his rookie contract with an eye-popping 135 catches last season, leading the league. Despite his undeniable contributions on the field, Lamb has chosen to sit out of Dallas' entire offseason program, signaling his desire for a new contract. The Cowboys did extend an offer "slightly under $33 million per season," but the deal falls just short of the average annual salary of Philadelphia Eagles receiver A.J. Brown, which stands at $32 million. Comparatively, Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings recently signed a lucrative four-year, $140 million extension, with a staggering $110 million guaranteed.
When asked about the negotiations, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones appeared cautiously optimistic. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones commented. He added, "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."
Dak Prescott: Anchor of the Offense with Uncertain Future
Dak Prescott, the 31-year-old quarterback, is also at a pivotal juncture in his career. Entering the final season of his four-year, $160 million contract, Prescott's deal includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. This essentially makes him a potential unrestricted free agent next offseason, unless the Cowboys can reach a new agreement.
As one of the emotional and tactical leaders of the team, Prescott's future is a critical concern for Dallas. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk," Jones said, emphasizing the ongoing negotiations. While no deal has been finalized, Jones highlighted the importance of the current contract still in effect. "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," he explained.
Challenges and Strategic Moves
The contract situations of both Lamb and Prescott pose significant challenges for the Cowboys' management. Balancing the salary cap while ensuring that their key players are satisfied and committed is not an easy task. Lamb's potential holdout could disrupt team chemistry and offensive strategy, while Prescott's unsigned future leaves room for speculation and uncertainty.
Nonetheless, Jerry Jones remains optimistic that amicable solutions can be reached. "We're operating under the existing contract really good," he mentioned, indicating that the team is preparing as usual despite the looming contract issues. However, the clock is ticking, and if agreements are not reached soon, the Cowboys might find themselves navigating a turbulent season opener and a potentially rocky year.
For now, the focus remains on securing deals that align with both the team's financial strategy and the players' market values. As the season opener inches closer, all eyes will be on Dallas to see how these pivotal negotiations unfold.
With just over two weeks left until the Cowboys take the field against the Browns, the next few days will be crucial in determining whether CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott will have new contracts that reflect their contributions and importance to the team.