The Dallas Cowboys are rapidly approaching their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns, with just 18 days remaining. As the anticipation builds for the new season, all eyes are on the contract negotiations of two vital players: wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott. Both players are entering the final year of their current deals, raising questions about their long-term futures with the team.
Key Contract Negotiations
CeeDee Lamb, now 25 years old, is concluding his rookie contract, having led the league with an impressive 135 catches last season. Despite this stellar performance, Lamb has opted to hold out of Dallas' entire offseason program. The Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb "slightly under $33 million per season," positioning Lamb at the higher end of the pay scale for top receivers. For context, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown’s average annual salary stands at $32 million, while Justin Jefferson recently secured a four-year, $140 million extension from the Minnesota Vikings, inclusive of $110 million guaranteed.
In addressing these negotiations, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has consistently projected optimism. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones said. He further emphasized, "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."
Dak Prescott’s Uncertain Future
Turning to the other major contract situation, Dak Prescott is also facing an uncertain future as he enters the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract. This contract includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause, granting Prescott significant leverage. At 31 years old, Prescott could become an unrestricted free agent next offseason if a new agreement isn't reached, an eventuality that could drastically alter the Cowboys' gameplay strategy moving forward.
Jones has acknowledged the complexity of these discussions, stating, "Well again, we're just continuing to talk." He expanded on the importance of maintaining the team's focus amidst these negotiations, noting, "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."
Impact on Team Dynamics
As the Cowboys inch closer to their season opener, the resolution of these contract situations could significantly impact the team's dynamics. Lamb is a cornerstone of the receiving corps, and securing his future in Dallas would ensure that Prescott retains one of his most reliable targets. Meanwhile, Prescott’s status as the team's leader on the field makes his contract situation equally crucial. His potential free agency could spark widespread speculation and movement in the quarterback market.
Ultimately, Jerry Jones' optimism could be a reassuring sign for Cowboys fans. However, the nature of NFL negotiations often involves a delicate balancing act, where existing contracts and future aspirations must coalesce harmoniously. Both Lamb and Prescott have shown their value on the field, and their contract resolutions will undoubtedly shape the Cowboys' trajectory this season and beyond.
For now, the Cowboys and their fans wait with bated breath, hopeful that both Lamb and Prescott will continue to don the silver and blue for many more years and contribute to the team’s success on the road ahead.