CeeDee Lamb Rejoins Cowboys with $136 Million Extension
It was a day of celebration and relief for Dallas Cowboys fans as star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb made his triumphant return to the team's first home practice session at The Ford Center. The indoor practice stadium pulsated with excitement as Lamb, fresh off signing a lucrative four-year, $136-million contract extension, was reintroduced to the faithful.
During his holdout, Lamb missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California, which brought anxiety to fans and the organization alike. Yet, Lamb's return was met with resounding cheers from both team employees and supporters. "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,'" recounted fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert. "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."
Lamb's new contract is a testament to his value, as it includes a $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus. This positions him as the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tied with Nick Bosa, while Justin Jefferson tops the list with a $35 million average per year salary.
A Bittersweet Journey
The journey to securing this contract was anything but straightforward. Lamb, who worked out in Texas and South Florida during his holdout, never doubted the resolution. "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient," Lamb admitted. He continued to reflect on the emotional rollercoaster of the negotiation process. "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."
The turning point came while Lamb was in Florida. "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south,'" Lamb recalled. When his agent revealed that "south" meant being offered $34 million per year, Lamb's response was enthusiastic: "'Well, where do I sign?'"
Staying Prepared Off the Field
Despite his physical absence from the training camp in Oxnard, Lamb ensured he stayed connected with his teammates and coaches. Head coach Mike McCarthy noted, "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." Lamb's dedication to his craft was evident as he kept up with offensive tweaks and adjustments through his iPad, maintaining consistent communication with his team.
Fellow player Jalen Tolbert also underscored Lamb's commitment. "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." This kind of involvement, despite the holdout, reassured the team of Lamb's unwavering dedication.
Lamb also used the holdout period to transform himself physically, adding 15 pounds of muscle. "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," he said, sounding ready to showcase his enhanced physique and skills.
Focus on the Future
Now that the contract details are ironed out, Lamb's focus shifts entirely to 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," Lamb emphasized, his relief and determination palpable.
The bond between Lamb and his quarterback, Dak Prescott, remains strong. Lamb made it a point to get some work in at Prescott's backyard field in Prosper, Texas, dubbed the "Dakyard," during his time away from the official training environment. "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 is now shifting his focus to what lies ahead, including emphasizing the need for Jerry Jones to secure Prescott's contract 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."
With the ink still drying on his new contract and the weight of negotiations lifted, Lamb is poised to reaffirm his status as a premier receiver in the NFL. His return has not only bolstered the morale of the Cowboys but also reignited hopes for a successful season ahead.