As the Dallas Cowboys prepare to return to Texas and wrap up their training camp, all eyes are on the looming contract extensions of key players Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. Despite assurances from the front office, the uncertainty surrounding their long-term future remains a point of discussion among fans and analysts alike.
Contract Discussions for Prescott and Lamb
Quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb have yet to finalize new deals, raising questions about whether agreements will be reached before the season commences. Cowboys executives Jerry and Stephen Jones have made it clear that retaining both stars is a priority. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks," Jerry Jones stated. "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."
Lamb, who was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver and led the NFL with 135 receptions in the 2023 season, has held out from the offseason program. His goal is to secure an extension beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Jerry Jones has put forth an offer that would make Lamb the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, just behind Justin Jefferson's four-year, $135 million extension that includes $110 million guaranteed.
"I don't want to speak for him. That's what I'm trying not to do," Jerry Jones added. "But we wouldn't have offered him what we've offered him if we didn't want him to be here." Mike McCarthy, the Cowboys head coach, emphasized the importance of integrating Lamb back into the team efficiently once the deal is done. "We have to be smart when he gets here. We're going to ramp up and get the wrinkles," McCarthy said, underscoring the team’s readiness to adapt to the circumstances.
Prescott's Leadership and Focus
Dak Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, appears less immersed in the negotiation process. His current contract is a four-year, $160 million deal that includes both a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. Prescott has delegated the negotiation duties to his agent, Todd France. "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," Prescott explained. "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."
Season Kickoff and Initial Challenges
The Cowboys are set to host a practice session at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony the next day. Their first regular-season test comes against the Cleveland Browns in Week 1. The Browns boasted the NFL's top defense in 2023, allowing only 270.2 total yards per game and featuring Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
This will be the second season where Mike McCarthy takes on the role of the Cowboys' offensive play-caller. Under his guidance last year, the Cowboys' offense led the league in scoring, averaging 29.9 points per game. While Jerry Jones acknowledges the reality of ongoing contract discussions, he remains optimistic about the team's ability to perform at a high level. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk. 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 elaborated. "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. None of us -- player or team -- want to hurt the preparation or likelihood of playing at your best."
Amid the backdrop of contract negotiations, the Cowboys are focused on maintaining their high standards on the field. As they transition from training camp back to regular-season routines, the resolution of key player contracts will be crucial for locker room stability and on-field success. For now, the Cowboys and their fans can only wait and see if deals for Prescott and Lamb will be sealed in time to avoid any disruptions to their quest for glory in the upcoming season.