The Dallas Cowboys are nearing the end of their training camp, preparing to return to Texas with significant questions looming over the futures of key players Quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Despite ongoing speculation, it remains unclear whether both stars will secure long-term contract extensions before the season kicks off.
Contract Talks in Progress
Both Prescott and Lamb are pivotal to the Cowboys' offensive strategy, and retaining their services is crucial. Team owner Jerry Jones and his son Stephen have been forthright about their intentions to keep the duo in Dallas. "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 noted, underscoring his confidence in reaching agreements.
Despite the optimism, Prescott and Lamb have yet to finalize deals, leading to a fair amount of conjecture among fans and analysts alike. Prescott, who led the NFL with 36 passing touchdowns in 2023, currently plays under a four-year, $160 million contract that includes significant protections like a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. He has left the contract negotiations to his agent, Todd France, while he focuses on preparing for the season. "There have 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," said Prescott.
Lamb's Stellar Performance and Contract Holdout
CeeDee Lamb, who was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season and led the NFL with 135 receptions, has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program. This move aims to secure a lucrative deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract, which expires in 2024. Jerry Jones acknowledged the value Lamb brings to the team, saying, "We wouldn't have offered him what we've offered him if we didn't want him to be here."
The contract offered to Lamb would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis. This offer comes in the wake of Justin Jefferson setting the market with a four-year, $135 million extension, of which $110 million is guaranteed. Lamb's holdout reflects a broader trend in the NFL, where players are keen to secure long-term financial security ahead of the final year of their rookie deals.
Upcoming Practice and Season Kickoff
As the Cowboys gear up for the season, their preparations include a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27. The following day, August 28, will feature the season kickoff ceremony, bringing an exciting start to their campaign.
The Cowboys' first matchup is against the Cleveland Browns in Week 1. The Browns, who led the NFL in total defense in 2023 by allowing just 270.2 total yards per game, present a formidable challenge. Defensive end Myles Garrett, named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, will undoubtedly be a key player to watch.
McCarthy's Role and Team Dynamics
2023 marked Mike McCarthy's first season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller, a year in which the Cowboys led the NFL in scoring with an average of 29.9 points per game. His leadership will be crucial as the team navigates the uncertainties surrounding their key players' contracts. Reflecting on the team's preparation, McCarthy emphasized the importance of smooth integration and practice. "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," he explained.
While the ongoing contract negotiations could potentially affect the team's focus, Jones believes operating under the existing arrangements should not be detrimental. "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," he stated.
The Dallas Cowboys are undeniably a team brimming with talent and potential. As they prepare to transition from training camp to the regular season, the resolution of Prescott's and Lamb's contracts remains a focal point. However, the confidence expressed by the team's leadership suggests that regardless of current uncertainties, the Cowboys are poised to make a strong showing in the upcoming season.