Cowboys Close Out Training Camp Amid Contract Speculations
As the Dallas Cowboys wrap up their training camp and prepare to return to Texas, several significant storylines hover over the team, particularly concerning quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Both players have yet to secure long-term contract extensions, prompting further speculation about their futures with the franchise.
Dak Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns last season with 36, is currently on a four-year, $160 million contract that includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. Despite these stipulations, the need for contract negotiations has arisen, and Prescott has made it clear that his agent, Todd France, is handling the discussions. "There's been conversations back and forth, but for the most part for me as y'all know, I let my agent do that, especially as we get right here into training camp," Prescott stated. His focus during this period is on aiding the team and ensuring optimal performance.
Lamb, named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver and leading the NFL with 135 receptions in 2023, is similarly seeking a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Lamb's absence from the Cowboys' offseason program underscores his determination to secure a lucrative extension. Jerry Jones, the team's owner, has been transparent about their intent to retain both Prescott and Lamb, stating, "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."
Negotiations with Lamb have been particularly notable, with Jones extending an offer that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver based on average annual value. This move follows a significant market shift, marked by Justin Jefferson's four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed, earlier this offseason. "We wouldn't have offered him what we've offered him if we didn't want him to be here," Jones emphasized.
The urgency of these contract negotiations is heightened by the looming start of the season. The Cowboys are set to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on August 28. Their first game of the season will be against the Cleveland Browns, a team that led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The Browns' standout defensive end, Myles Garrett, was also named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Under the guidance of head coach Mike McCarthy, who took on offensive play-calling duties last season, the Cowboys achieved remarkable offensive success, leading the league in scoring with 29.9 points per game. McCarthy remains confident in integrating Lamb back into the fold, stating, "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."
While contract discussions remain a focal point, Jerry Jones assures fans that the team's existing contracts suffice for optimal operation. "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," Jones explained. He emphasized that neither the player nor the team wishes to jeopardize preparations or performance.
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their upcoming season, the resolution of contract negotiations with key players like Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb will be vital. The Cowboys' ability to retain their standout talents while maintaining focus on their competitive goals will define their path forward. For now, all eyes are on the negotiations, hopeful that deals will be finalized before the season kicks off.