CeeDee Lamb Returns to Cowboys with $136 Million Extension
CeeDee Lamb is back with the Dallas Cowboys, and he’s coming with a hefty $136 million contract extension in hand. The wide receiver’s four-year deal solidifies his presence in Dallas, ensuring he'll remain a key piece of the Cowboys' offensive puzzle. With an average annual salary of $34 million, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus, Lamb has certainly made his mark as one of the top earners in the league.
Lamb now stands as the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tied with Nick Bosa and trailing only Justin Jefferson, who commands a $35 million average per year. Securing such a lucrative contract did not come without challenges, as Lamb's absence from organized team activities, minicamps, and training camp left fans and the organization in a state of anxiety.
Staying Ready During the Holdout
While Lamb held out, he didn’t remain idle. He worked out rigorously in Texas and South Florida, adding 15 pounds of muscle in the process. The time spent away from the team was used effectively, ensuring that the star wideout was in peak condition upon his return.
Despite not being physically present, Lamb remained connected with his teammates and coaches through virtual means. "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," recounted fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert. Importantly, Lamb also made it a priority to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field whenever he returned to Dallas from training in Florida.
Commitment to the Team
Head coach Mike McCarthy has assured that Lamb's role will remain unchanged from last year, where he was the premier receiver. "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," McCarthy stated.
Lamb's integration back into the team setting was warmly received. "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,'" Tolbert shared. The positive energy was palpable among his teammates, who recognized the hard work that led to Lamb's deserved payday. "Just having that moment with him after he got what he deserved. We know that he works hard for what he got. So it's special to see a guy like that," added Tolbert.
For Lamb, the conclusion of contract negotiations brings a sense of relief and a renewed focus on football. "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient," Lamb admitted. Reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster, he noted, "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."
Looking Ahead
With the contract drama behind him, Lamb is ready to focus entirely on the upcoming season. "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. Feeling more prepared than ever, Lamb added, "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities."
Lamb also emphasized the need for Cowboys owner Jerry Jones to secure Prescott's contract extension, underscoring their strong on-field chemistry. "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," said Lamb.
The journey to his new contract may have been tumultuous, but it has set the stage for a promising season ahead. As the Cowboys gear up for the new campaign, Lamb's return, bolstered by a renewed focus and significant muscular gains, promises to make a significant impact on the team's performance.