The Dallas Cowboys' Training Camp Wrap-Up and Contractual Conversations
As the Dallas Cowboys wind down their training camp, significant attention has been drawn to the contractual situations of two of their star offensive players: quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Both athletes have yet to secure long-term extensions, an issue that has set the stage for intensified speculation and intrigue as the regular season approaches.
Team ownership, represented by Jerry and Stephen Jones, has remained openly committed to keeping both Prescott and Lamb as pivotal assets for the Cowboys. Jerry Jones, the team's owner, has echoed optimism regarding the ongoing negotiations. "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," Jones stated.
In 2023, CeeDee Lamb's performance underscored his importance to the team. Named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver, Lamb led the NFL with 135 receptions, solidifying his standing among the league's elite receivers. Despite his stellar season, Lamb has opted to hold out from the Cowboys' offseason program, aiming to secure a new deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Jerry Jones has reportedly extended a lucrative offer that would make Lamb the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, trailing only Justin Jefferson, who set a benchmark with his recent four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed.
The uncertainty surrounding Lamb’s contract has not gone unnoticed by fans and analysts alike. On the other hand, Dak Prescott's situation is equally complex. The star quarterback led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023, boasting 36 scores that year. He is currently under a four-year, $160 million contract, which notably includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. As the season draws nearer, Prescott has delegated contract negotiations to his agent, Todd France, emphasizing his focus on team 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," Jones mentioned. "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."
Prescott himself echoed these sentiments, stating, "There's been conversations back and forth, but for the most part for me as y'all know, I let my agent (Todd France) do that, especially as we get right here into training camp. Day 1 of training camp, my mind flips to obviously helping my team and just doing everything I can within the organization and on the football field to make sure that I'm my best and everyone around me is their best. The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
As the Cowboys prepare to return to Texas and host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on August 28, the focus will inevitably shift back to the gridiron. Head coach Mike McCarthy, now in his second season as the offensive play-caller, will be tasked with seamlessly integrating any contractual distractions into the team's preparations. "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," McCarthy commented.
The Cowboys' first test of the season comes against the Cleveland Browns in Week 1. The Browns, boasting the NFL's top defense in 2023 by allowing just 270.2 total yards per game, present a formidable challenge. Cleveland's defensive prowess is anchored by Myles Garrett, who was named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Nonetheless, the Cowboys' offensive unit, which led the NFL in scoring last season with 29.9 points per game, aims to counter the Browns' defensive dominance.
With key players' futures hanging in the balance, the upcoming season promises to be filled with both opportunities and uncertainties for the Cowboys. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how these dynamics unfold as Dallas strives for on-field success while navigating intricate contractual landscapes.