With mere days left before the 2024 NFL regular season kicks off, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves facing significant contractual decisions that could impact their immediate and long-term future. The team prepares to open the season against the Cleveland Browns, but the focus is increasingly turning towards two cornerstone players: star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott.
Key Contract Situations
CeeDee Lamb, who has just completed his rookie contract, stands at the forefront of contractual discussions. The 25-year-old wideout has electrified the league, leading with an astonishing 135 catches last season. Understandably, Lamb's performance has positioned him as a priority for the Cowboys' front office. However, his decision to hold out of the entire offseason program reflects the complexities inherent in these negotiations.
The Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb that is reportedly "slightly under $33 million per season," a figure that places him just above the Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown, who averages $32 million annually. In comparison, Justin Jefferson, another premier receiver, recently signed a four-year contract extension worth $140 million with the Minnesota Vikings, including $110 million guaranteed. These figures underscore the escalating market for elite receivers and the financial balancing act Dallas must perform.
Prescott's Pivotal Moment
On the other side of the field, Dak Prescott enters the final season of his four-year, $160 million contract. Prescott's deal includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause, unique provisions that provide him with significant leverage. At 31 years old, Prescott faces a pivotal juncture in his career; if the Cowboys cannot reach a new agreement, he is poised to become an unrestricted free agent next offseason.
Despite the uncertainty, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," said Jones. The Cowboys' priority to retain Prescott is unequivocal, as Jones added, "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."
Strategic Approach in Ongoing Discussions
For both players, the Cowboys appear to be adopting a strategy of keeping lines of communication open while emphasizing the importance of operating under the current contracts. "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 explained. "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."
These remarks highlight a pragmatic approach to the ongoing discussions, with a clear objective to avoid disruptions as the team heads into a crucial season. Both Lamb and Prescott are instrumental to the Cowboys' offensive firepower, and their futures with the team are critical for maintaining continuity and competitive edge.
As the countdown to the season opener continues, the Cowboys' management is navigating these intricate negotiations with the hope of securing long-term commitments from their star players. The outcome of these talks will not only shape the team's trajectory for the upcoming season but also define its strategic framework for years to come. While the deadlines loom, optimism from the leadership and clear communication from all parties involved may pave the way for successful resolutions.