The Dallas Cowboys are approaching their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns with only 18 days remaining. As anticipation builds for the upcoming season, substantial attention is being directed towards the contract situations of two pivotal players: star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and reliable quarterback Dak Prescott.
Contract Negotiations in Focus
Both Lamb and Prescott are entering the final year of their current contracts, leaving fans and analysts speculating about their futures with the team. CeeDee Lamb, having just completed his rookie contract, is coming off an exceptional season where he led the league with an impressive 135 catches. At 25 years old, Lamb's performance on the field has undoubtedly solidified his position as a critical asset for the Cowboys. However, his absence from the entire offseason program has raised eyebrows.
The Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb, reportedly in the range of just under $33 million per season. This figure is compared to the $32 million average annual salary of Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown, and is also seen in relation to Justin Jefferson's recent deal, a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, which included $110 million in guaranteed money.
Team owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic about reaching an agreement with Lamb. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]." Jones has emphasized the team's commitment to Lamb, stating, "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."
The Dak Prescott Dilemma
The situation with Dak Prescott presents its own complexities. The quarterback, now 31 years old, is in the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract, which notably includes a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. If a new agreement isn’t reached, Prescott could enter unrestricted free agency next offseason, making this a critical juncture for both player and team.
Jerry Jones has expressed a practical approach towards the ongoing discussions. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk," he commented. He has also acknowledged the challenges of negotiating during the season, stating, "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."
Balancing Act
For the Cowboys, striking the right balance between securing their star players and maintaining team harmony is crucial. Lamb's performance last season has undoubtedly added leverage to his negotiations, while Prescott's established role as the team's leader on offense puts similar pressure on the front office to finalize his future.
The Cowboys' season opener against the Browns will be pivotal, not just for setting the tone for their campaign, but also for showcasing the dynamic between management and players amidst contract negotiations. With the clock ticking down to game day, the focus of the Cowboys’ front office remains on ensuring that both Lamb and Prescott are satisfied and locked in for the long term—an outcome that would reassure fans and stabilize the team's core for the future.