With the countdown to the 2024 NFL regular season narrowing to just 18 days, the Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for their opener against the Cleveland Browns. Amidst the preparations, the focus has shifted to two key players whose contract situations could significantly impact the team's dynamics: First Team All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and Second Team All-Pro quarterback Dak Prescott.
Key Contract Decisions Looming
Both Lamb and Prescott are entering the final year of their respective deals, bringing added urgency to the Cowboys' front office. Lamb, who is wrapping up his rookie contract, has become indispensable to the team's offensive prowess. At just 25 years old, Lamb led the league with 135 catches last season, highlighting his critical role in Dallas' aerial attack.
However, Lamb's contract negotiations have hit a bump, as evidenced by his absence from Dallas' entire offseason program. Notably, Dallas extended an offer that was "slightly under $33 million per season" to Lamb, a figure that situates him just shy of Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown’s $32 million average annual salary. Comparatively, Justin Jefferson's lucrative four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, which includes $110 million guaranteed, sets a high bar for Lamb's contract expectations.
Jerry Jones' Optimism
Team owner Jerry Jones has expressed cautious optimism about reaching an agreement with Lamb. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones remarked. He emphasized the team's commitment to Lamb, stating, "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."
A Critical Season for Dak Prescott
On the other hand, Dak Prescott's future with the Cowboys is equally critical as he navigates the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract. The deal includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause, elements that could provide Prescott with substantial leverage during negotiations. At 31 years old, Prescott's potential to enter unrestricted free agency next offseason looms large unless a new agreement is reached.
Jones acknowledged the ongoing discussions, saying, "Well again, we're just continuing to talk." He also highlighted the importance of balancing contract negotiations with maintaining the team's performance. "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 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."
Balancing Act
The Cowboys find themselves in a precarious position, needing to balance the immediate preparations for the season with the long-term stability of their roster. Lamb’s holdout through the offseason program and Prescott’s potential free agency could cast shadows over the team’s aspirations if not addressed promptly.
As the days tick down to their season opener, the Cowboys will continue to negotiate with Lamb and Prescott, aiming to secure extensions that recognize their contributions while maintaining the financial flexibility to build a championship-contending team. Jones’ optimism is a positive signal, but the complexity of these negotiations cannot be understated.
For now, the Cowboys and their fans must remain hopeful that unity will prevail over uncertainty, ensuring that both Lamb and Prescott continue to shine in Dallas colors well into the future.