CeeDee Lamb Rejoins Cowboys with Lucrative Contract Extension
CeeDee Lamb has officially rejoined the Dallas Cowboys after securing a blockbuster four-year, $136-million contract extension. Lamb's new deal, which places him as the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, includes a $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus. Only Justin Jefferson has a higher salary among non-quarterbacks, with an average of $35 million per year.
Despite the lucrative nature of the extension, Lamb’s journey back to the Cowboys was filled with twists and turns. The star receiver missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California during his holdout. Instead, he spent his time working out in Texas and South Florida, adding 15 pounds of muscle to his frame during this period.
Head coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear that Lamb's role on the team will remain unchanged. "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 confirmed.
Staying Connected and Preparing
Even though Lamb physically stayed away from team activities, he remained connected with his teammates and coaches via his iPad. He also made it a point to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field whenever he returned from training in Florida. Jalen Tolbert, a fellow Cowboys player, recounted how plugged in Lamb was during his holdout. "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," Tolbert shared.
Lamb's commitment to staying in tune with the team was evident. "We got our reps in for sure. The best thing about it, him having a field in his backyard. So anytime I came back home [from training in Florida], it was time [to throw with Prescott]," said Lamb. His dedication to maintaining a strong connection with Prescott underscores his focus on team chemistry despite the contract negotiations.
The Moment of Rejoining
The anticipation surrounding Lamb's return was palpable among fans and the organization alike. The Ford Center, the site of Lamb's reintroduction, buzzed with excitement as he walked through the doors. Jalen Tolbert fondly recounted the moment: "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.'" The sentiment of relief and celebration among teammates was clear. Tolbert added, "Everyone was like, 'Hey Cee[Dee].' 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."
For Lamb, the journey to securing his extension was a rollercoaster. "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient," he admitted. His agent’s call was the turning point. "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south,'" Lamb revealed. But once the deal was in sight, his response was decisive: "Well, where do I sign?"
Focus on the Future
Now, with contract negotiations in the rearview mirror, Lamb is entirely focused on his performance on the field. He expressed his readiness for the season, emphasizing his new physical preparedness. "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," Lamb stated with confidence.
Additionally, Lamb highlighted the importance of securing a contract extension for quarterback Dak Prescott. "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," Lamb urged.
As Lamb integrates back into the Cowboys’ fold, the franchise and its fans breathe a collective sigh of relief. His contributions will undoubtedly be pivotal as the team looks ahead to the upcoming season, eager to build on the palpable synergy between Lamb and Prescott. "We had a businessman conversation. Just had to clear the room. Everything is behind us. I'm not worried about nothing. We got what we needed to get done. Now it's time for me to go ball," Lamb concluded.