CeeDee Lamb Rejoins Cowboys with $136-Million Extension
After a prolonged contract negotiation that saw star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb absent from all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp, the Dallas Cowboys have finally secured Lamb's future with a lucrative extension. Reports confirm that Lamb has signed a four-year, $136-million contract, a deal that includes a $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus.
With this extension, Lamb becomes the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tied with Nick Bosa. Only Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson surpasses Lamb, commanding a $35 million annual salary.
Holding Out and Staying Ready
Throughout his holdout, Lamb was far from idle. Opting out of the Cowboys' training camp in Oxnard, California, he instead trained independently in Texas and South Florida. Lamb's commitment to maintaining peak physical condition was evident, as he managed to add 15 pounds of muscle during his self-imposed hiatus.
Despite the physical separation from his team, Lamb remained in continuous contact. Head coach Mike McCarthy provided assurances, stating, "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." Lamb's actions reflected his readiness; he practiced regularly with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field, ensuring the duo remained in sync.
Fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert painted a picture of Lamb's remote engagement: "He was plugged in. 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."
Emotional Return and Team Dynamics
Upon Lamb's return, the atmosphere around the Cowboys' facility was electric. Jalen Tolbert 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 excitement was palpable among teammates who had missed their star receiver. "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," Tolbert added.
Focus on the Future
Now that the contract issues are resolved, Lamb's focus is entirely on the field. Reflecting on the negotiation, Lamb shared, "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient." The resolve and clarity were evident: "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's enthusiasm and readiness were evident when recalling the final steps of his contract negotiation: "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south.' Well, where do I sign?"
Physically, Lamb feels more prepared than ever. "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," Lamb said, reflecting on the benefits of his offseason training.
Quarterback Connection
One prominent narrative throughout Lamb's holdout was his commitment to his connection with Prescott. Lamb emphasized the continuity of their relationship and its crucial role in the team's success: "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]."
The star wide receiver also vocalized his thoughts on Prescott's contract situation, underscoring Prescott's importance to the team: "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."
Looking Ahead
As Lamb rejoins the Cowboys, both the organization and the fans can now breathe a sigh of relief. The successful completion of his contract extension means Lamb can turn his full attention to the field, where his performance will undoubtedly be pivotal to the team's aspirations this season.
"I can't really put it into words. I tell them I'm grateful to be here every moment of the day. This whole process was very crazy for me, as we all know. Very bittersweet," Lamb expressed, encapsulating the emotional rollercoaster of the past few months. Now, with his new deal in place, both Lamb and the Cowboys can set their sights firmly on the goals ahead.