The Dallas Cowboys are wrapping up their training camp and returning to Texas, carrying high hopes and a few uncertainties as the new season approaches. Key players Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb have yet to sign long-term extensions, raising some eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Uncertain Contracts
Quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb are integral to the Cowboys' pursuit for glory. However, their contractual situations remain unresolved. Jerry and Stephen Jones have been vocal about their desire to retain both players, but no agreements have been reached thus far.
"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," Jerry Jones remarked, indicating optimism despite the uncertainties.
The 2023 season saw outstanding performances from both players. CeeDee Lamb was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver and led the NFL with 135 receptions. Meanwhile, Prescott led the league in passing touchdowns with 36. Their contributions were crucial in making the Cowboys’ offense the highest-scoring unit last season, averaging 29.9 points per game under Mike McCarthy’s first year as the offensive play-caller.
Prescott and Lamb's Prospects
Lamb, aware of his value, has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program, seeking a deal beyond his rookie contract, which expires in 2024. Jerry Jones has reportedly offered Lamb a contract that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, a significant indicator of Lamb's standing within the team.
The wide receiver contract market was notably influenced by Justin Jefferson’s four-year, $135 million extension, which included $110 million guaranteed. This deal has undoubtedly set a high benchmark for negotiations. Meanwhile, Prescott's current four-year, $160 million deal, which includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, shows the Cowboys' commitment to their quarterback.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Prescott maintains his focus on football. "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 stated.
Upcoming Challenges
As the Cowboys return to Texas, they are set for a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on August 28. Their Week 1 opponent, the Cleveland Browns, presents a formidable challenge. Known for leading the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game, the Browns also boast Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Jerry Jones stressed the importance of operating under existing contracts to maintain focus and preparation. "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. One of the things that the fans should really understand is that nine times out of 10, 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 explained.
With the season fast approaching, the Cowboys' leadership and coaching staff are keen on ensuring everyone is game-ready. Mike McCarthy emphasized the necessity of integrating Lamb back into the fold efficiently. "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 said.
The Cowboys have demonstrated an ability to perform at an elite level despite contractual distractions. Whether agreements are inked before the season begins or not, the focus remains on the field, where the Cowboys' high-octane offense will look to build on last year's success and make a deep playoff run. As talks continue behind the scenes, Dallas fans will watch closely, hoping that their star players commit long-term.