Countdown to Kickoff: Dallas Cowboys Face Key Contract Challenges
As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns, the clock is ticking, with just 18 days remaining. While the team prepares for action, front-office negotiations are intensifying around two of their biggest stars, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott, both of whom are entering the final year of their current contracts.
Lamb's Contract Standoff
CeeDee Lamb, the 25-year-old wide receiver, has been a standout performer for the Cowboys since joining the league. Last season, he led the NFL with 135 catches, solidifying his status as one of the premier wideouts in the game. However, Lamb's rookie contract is coming to an end, and his future with the team hangs in the balance. Notably, Lamb has held out of Dallas' entire offseason program, underscoring the urgency of securing a new deal.
The Cowboys have extended an offer, reportedly "slightly under $33 million per season," to Lamb. For context, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown has an average annual salary of $32 million, while Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings recently signed a four-year, $140 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed. The numbers indicate the going rate for elite receivers, and Dallas' offer positions Lamb competitively within that market.
Throughout the negotiations, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has struck an optimistic tone. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones remarked, reflecting his belief that an agreement will be reached. "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." His comments suggest a mutual interest in continuing the partnership, although the final terms are still being hashed out.
Prescott's Future Uncertain
Dak Prescott, the Cowboys' franchise quarterback, is also approaching a crucial juncture in his career. Prescott is in the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract, which includes a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. At 31 years old, Prescott faces the possibility of entering unrestricted free agency next offseason if the two parties do not come to a new agreement.
Jones has consistently emphasized the importance of continuing open dialogue with Prescott's camp. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk," he said, underscoring the ongoing nature of the discussions. The Cowboys' owner has also pointed out that the existing contract provides a strong operational foundation. "The thing is there, since we're really in-season, practicing, doing all those things, we're operating under the existing contract really good," Jones commented. "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' remarks suggest that while the negotiations are ongoing, both sides are focused on ensuring that the team's preparation and performance remain unaffected. The owner’s pragmatic approach indicates that the Cowboys are intent on navigating these discussions without disrupting their immediate football operations.
The Road Ahead
As anticipation builds for the season opener against the Browns, Cowboys fans will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the developments surrounding Lamb and Prescott’s contracts. Both players are pivotal to Dallas’ success, and securing their futures would provide not just stability, but a clear message about the team's commitment to retaining its top talent.
The clock is ticking, but with Jerry Jones expressing optimism and highlighting ongoing talks, there is cautious confidence that resolutions will be found. For now, the Cowboys must balance the pressing contract negotiations with the final stages of pre-season preparations, aiming for a strong start to what promises to be a pivotal season.