CeeDee Lamb Rejoins Cowboys with a Monumental Extension
CeeDee Lamb's return to the Dallas Cowboys comes with significant fanfare after securing a four-year, $136 million contract extension. The agreement solidifies Lamb's place as a cornerstone of the Cowboys' offense, tying him with Nick Bosa as the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, only behind Justin Jefferson's $35 million average annual salary.
This extension, which includes a $34 million average per year, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus, marks a high-stakes conclusion to a tense holdout. During this period, Lamb missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and the training camp held in Oxnard, California. Instead, he chose to work out in Texas and South Florida, adding an impressive 15 pounds of muscle to his frame to better prepare for the rigors of the upcoming season.
"I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," Lamb mentioned, showcasing his readiness for the season.
The emotional roller coaster of contract negotiations seems to have taken a toll on Lamb, who openly expressed his frustration and unease during the process. "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient," he remarked. However, the eventual resolution has left him feeling nothing but gratitude. "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," he added.
Reconnecting with Teammates
Despite his physical absence from team activities, Lamb found ways to stay connected with his teammates and the coaching staff. Using his iPad, he maintained virtual communication, ensuring he remained plugged into the team's dynamics. "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," shared fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert.
Lamb also made it a priority to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott, utilizing Prescott's backyard field to maintain their synergy. "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 recounted.
Focus on the Future
With his contractual issues now behind him, Lamb's focus is entirely on the field. His sights are set on performing at the highest level and helping the Cowboys achieve their goals. Head coach Mike McCarthy assured that Lamb's essential role within the team remains 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," stated McCarthy.
The return of Lamb to the team was marked by a memorable moment at the Ford Center, where he was reintroduced to the Cowboys amidst cheers from his teammates. "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. The joyous reentrance signifies not just Lamb's return, but also the end of a period of anxiety for both fans and the organization.
Lamb navigated the complex landscape of NFL negotiations with resolve and clarity. "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," he asserted.
Additionally, Lamb has urged team owner Jerry Jones to expedite Prescott's contract extension, underlining his belief in the quarterback's value to the team. "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," Lamb emphasized.
CeeDee Lamb's re-signing marks a pivotal moment for the Cowboys, locking in one of the league's top talents. As Lamb steps back onto the field, having built a stronger physique and rekindled his connections within the team, the Cowboys' offense looks poised to make significant strides. The anticipation surrounding his return is palpable, with fans and teammates alike eager to see what this next chapter holds.