The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up to conclude their training camp and make their way back to Texas. As the regular season looms, the focus isn't just on the field but also on crucial contractual negotiations involving key players. Quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb are both seeking long-term extensions, a topic that has generated considerable buzz among fans and analysts alike.
Contract Talks: Prescott and Lamb
Despite not yet securing long-term deals, Prescott and Lamb remain central to the Cowboys' future plans. Jerry and Stephen Jones have been open about their intentions to retain both players. "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," said Jerry Jones, reflecting cautiously on the ongoing discussions.
The urgency is clear as CeeDee Lamb holds out from the offseason program, aiming to secure an extension beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Lamb's performance last season substantiates his value; he led the NFL with 135 receptions and was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver. To underscore their commitment, Jerry Jones has proposed a deal that would make Lamb the second-highest-paid wide receiver on an average annual basis. This offer comes on the heels of Justin Jefferson’s market-setting four-year, $135 million extension, which includes $110 million guaranteed.
For Prescott, the situation is equally pressing but managed with a different approach. The quarterback currently leads under a four-year, $160 million contract, which includes both a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. Having led the NFL in passing touchdowns last season with 36, Prescott's importance to the team can't be overstated. However, he remains focused on the season ahead, leaving the intricacies of contract negotiations 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 remarked. "The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Cowboys' Preseason Activities and Team Dynamics
The Cowboys are set to hold a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony the next day. The attention to preparation is crucial, especially with Week 1's challenging matchup against the Cleveland Browns, who led the NFL in total defense last season, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The game’s spotlight will also shine on Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
On the offensive side, the Cowboys boasted the league's highest-scoring team last season, averaging 29.9 points per game under Mike McCarthy's first year as offensive play-caller. The balance between maintaining a high-scoring offense and integrating any new tactical wrinkles remains essential. McCarthy noted, "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."
As the Cowboys navigate this critical juncture, Jerry Jones emphasizes the broader perspective. "None of us -- player or team -- want to hurt the preparation or likelihood of playing at your best," he said. This statement underscores the necessity of balancing contractual intricacies with maintaining team performance and morale.
The journey back to Texas from training camp is a pivotal transition not just geographically but also organizationally. With Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb central to the Cowboys' ambitions, the developments over the coming weeks will be closely watched, setting the stage for what promises to be an engaging season both on and off the field.