As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to close out their training camp and return to Texas, the clock is ticking on substantial contract negotiations that could shape their roster's core for years to come. Quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb have yet to secure long-term extensions, despite the team's transparent intent to retain both players.
Key Offseason Developments
Throughout this offseason, Jerry and Stephen Jones have been vocal about their desire to lock in deals with Prescott and Lamb. Expectations have run high, especially given Lamb's standout performance last season. Named a first-team All-Pro receiver in 2023, Lamb led the NFL with an impressive 135 receptions. However, Lamb has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program, aiming to extend his tenure beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
In a bid to ensure Lamb’s future with the team, Jerry Jones extended an offer that would position him as the NFL's second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis. This move comes after Justin Jefferson set a new benchmark for wide receivers earlier this offseason with a four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed.
Prescott's Contract Speculations
On the other side, Dak Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns last year with 36, has directed all contract discussions to his agent, Todd France. Prescott's current deal, a four-year, $160 million contract featuring no-franchise tag and no-trade clauses, is set to expire soon, fueling speculations on whether an extension will be settled before the start of the season.
While addressing the media, Jerry Jones expressed cautious optimism about the ongoing negotiations. "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," Jones remarked.
Prescott shared a similar sentiment, prioritizing his performance and team leadership over immediate contract concerns. "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, especially as we get right here into training camp. Day 1 of training camp, my mind flips to obviously helping my team and just doing everything I can within the organization and on the football field to make sure that I'm my best and everyone around me is their best. The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has," Prescott explained.
The Road Ahead
The Cowboys are gearing up for a pivotal period as they host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. As the season opener against the Cleveland Browns draws near, the pressure to finalize contracts intensifies.
The Browns, who led the NFL in total defense in 2023 by allowing just 270.2 total yards per game, present a formidable first challenge. Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, will undoubtedly test the Cowboys' offense, which led the league in scoring last season with an average of 29.9 points per game. Marking his first season as Dallas's offensive play-caller in 2023, Mike McCarthy will be scrutinized for his strategic adjustments this year.
McCarthy, focusing on the immediate task at hand, emphasized the importance of smart planning and integration for any new or returning players. "We have to be smart when he gets here. We're going to ramp up and get the wrinkles, there's always going to be some new wrinkles that I'm sure he's in tune with from a communication standpoint, but he's going to need some reps. Yeah, we'll get that done," McCarthy noted.
As the Cowboys edge closer to their Week 1 showdown with the Browns, the overarching narrative will undoubtedly center on the looming contract resolutions. With Jerry Jones remaining optimistic, fans and analysts alike will eagerly anticipate whether these critical deals will be inked, securing the futures of Prescott and Lamb with the Cowboys.