As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to launch their 2024 NFL regular season against the Cleveland Browns, the clock is ticking with just 18 days left before the opener. However, the anticipation of the game isn't the only thing occupying the minds of the Cowboys' management and fans. Attention has turned to the contract situations of two of their most indispensable players: CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott.
Contractual Focus on Key Players
CeeDee Lamb, the Cowboys' First Team All-Pro wide receiver, and Dak Prescott, the Second Team All-Pro quarterback, are both entering the final year of their current contracts. Lamb, who is 25 years old, is completing his rookie contract, a period highlighted by his league-leading 135 catches last season. Despite his on-field excellence, Lamb has held out of Dallas' entire offseason program, signaling potential difficulties in the ongoing contract negotiations.
The Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb that is "slightly under $33 million per season." To put this into perspective, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown’s average annual salary stands at $32 million. Moreover, Justin Jefferson recently inked a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, which included a staggering $110 million guaranteed. These figures loom large as benchmarks in the negotiations between Lamb's representatives and the Cowboys' front office.
Jerry Jones Remains Optimistic
Despite the tension, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with Lamb. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones stated. He reinforced his confidence by adding, "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."
However, it remains to be seen whether Lamb will agree to the terms laid out by the team. Jones acknowledges the complexity of the situation with both parties focusing on the upcoming season: "Well again, we're just continuing to talk. The thing is there, since we're really in-season, practicing, doing all those things, we're operating under the existing contract really good." He pointed out the broader context of the NFL where ongoing contract discussions are commonplace, even when existing contracts have time left on them.
"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," Jones elaborated.
Prescott's Contract Stakes
On the other hand, Dak Prescott is poised to enter unrestricted free agency next offseason if a new deal isn't secured. The quarterback is currently in the last season of a four-year, $160 million contract that includes a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. Having turned 31 this offseason, Prescott faces a pivotal moment in his career, with the possibility of hitting the open market should negotiations falter.
As the Cowboys navigate these crucial contract discussions, the pressure is on to ensure both Lamb and Prescott remain integral parts of the team. The balance of financial considerations, player value, and on-field performance will be key in determining the outcome of these important negotiations. For now, as the season opener looms, all eyes will be on the Dallas Cowboys to see how they manage to secure their future amid these high-stakes contract talks.