CeeDee Lamb's Return: A $136-Million Reintroduction to the Cowboys
After an extended holdout that saw him miss crucial organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California, CeeDee Lamb has rejoined the Dallas Cowboys in a big way. The star wide receiver has secured a massive four-year, $136-million contract extension, making him the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tied with San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa.
The contract, which includes a $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a hefty $38 million signing bonus, highlights Lamb’s value to the team. Only Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson surpasses Lamb with a $35 million average per year.
Lamb’s holdout created anxiety among fans and within the Cowboys organization, but it appears the time away was well spent. During his holdout, Lamb trained in Texas and South Florida, adding 15 pounds of muscle to better prepare himself for the physical demands of the NFL. As CeeDee Lamb put it, "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities."
Throughout the holdout, Lamb maintained communication with his teammates and coaches through his iPad, ensuring he stayed plugged into the team’s activities. "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," shared fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert.
Even while away, Lamb made it a priority to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field. "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]," Lamb said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining synergy with his quarterback.
Lamb’s return to the Cowboys was marked by an unforgettable moment at The Ford Center, where he was reintroduced to the team amid cheers from his teammates. "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,'" recounts Jalen Tolbert. The wide receiver’s first day back resonated with the team, as Tolbert added, "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."
Coach Mike McCarthy has assured that Lamb’s role will not change from last year, affirming his status as the premiere receiver of the team. "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," McCarthy stated.
The negotiation process was taxing for Lamb, and its conclusion brought a mix of relief and excitement. "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 reflected. He vividly recalled the moment his agent broke the news, "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south.' I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient."
With the contract now secured, Lamb’s focus is entirely on the field. "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," he expressed, showing readiness for the upcoming season.
Beyond his personal achievements, Lamb hasn’t forgotten about his quarterback’s contract situation. He’s vocal about the need for the Cowboys to secure Dak Prescott’s extension. "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," Lamb asserted, emphasizing the importance of team stability.
As the Cowboys gear up for the new season, Lamb’s return is a significant boost. With his enhanced physical readiness and the security of his new contract, CeeDee Lamb stands poised to make a substantial impact on the team’s performance.