The Dallas Cowboys find themselves at a critical juncture as they prepare for the impending 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns. With just 18 days remaining, the spotlight is firmly on the contractual statuses of two of their most pivotal players: CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott.
Contract Concerns for Key Players
CeeDee Lamb, the 25-year-old First Team All-Pro wide receiver, is concluding his rookie contract on a high note, having led the league with an impressive 135 catches last season. Despite his stellar performance, Lamb has opted out of Dallas' entire offseason program, underscoring the urgency of his contract discussions. The Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb estimated at "slightly under $33 million per season." For comparison, the Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown, another elite receiver, commands an average annual salary of $32 million, while Justin Jefferson's recent four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, including $110 million guaranteed, sets a high bar in the market.
Meanwhile, the situation is similarly tense around quarterback Dak Prescott. The Second Team All-Pro is in the final season of a lucrative four-year, $160 million deal, which includes both no-franchise-tag and no-trade clauses. As Prescott turned 31 this offseason, the Cowboys must weigh the potential of him entering unrestricted free agency next offseason against the imperative of securing his services longer term.
Optimism Inside the Organization
Despite the seemingly precarious situation, team owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic about reaching agreements with both players. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones stated, reflecting a positive outlook on the negotiations. He 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."
Jones highlighted the ongoing nature of the discussions, emphasizing, "Well again, we're just continuing to talk." His confidence is apparent, yet the complexity of NFL contracts and the competitive market for elite talent ensures that negotiations can be protracted.
Managing Expectations and Preparations
The timing of these negotiations, coming just as the team is deep into its season preparations, adds another layer of complexity. Jones addressed this, 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."
This insight from Jones provides a reassuring perspective for fans, highlighting the team's ability to maintain operational integrity and focus amid ongoing negotiations. The Cowboys' priority is clear: securing the future of their top talents while ensuring their readiness and cohesion for the approaching season.
As the countdown to the season opener continues, all eyes remain on how these contract situations will unfold. The outcomes will not only shape the Cowboys' immediate prospects but also have long-term implications for the franchise's competitive standing.