Cowboys Set to Break Camp Without Long-Term Deals for Prescott and Lamb
The Dallas Cowboys are preparing to wrap up their training camp and head back to Texas, but questions remain about the futures of two of their most crucial players. Quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb have yet to ink long-term extensions, sparking speculation on whether deals will be finalized before the season kicks off.
Despite the uncertainties, team executives Jerry and Stephen Jones have been transparent in their intent to retain both Prescott and Lamb. "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," Jerry Jones stated regarding Lamb. He added, "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."
CeeDee Lamb: An Unquestionable Asset
CeeDee Lamb's exceptional performance has undoubtedly elevated his stature within the league. The 2023 season saw Lamb named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver, and he led the NFL with an impressive 135 receptions. Seeking a contract commensurate with his performance, Lamb has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program, looking to secure a deal that reflects his value beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
Reportedly, Jerry Jones has extended an offer that would make Lamb the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis. With Justin Jefferson setting the market earlier this offseason with a four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed, the stakes are high for negotiations with Lamb. Head coach Mike McCarthy emphasized the importance of integrating Lamb effectively once he returns: "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."
Dak Prescott: Contributing Under Existing Contract
While Lamb's situation remains in flux, Dak Prescott's contract also warrants attention. The second-team All-Pro quarterback led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36. Prescott's deal, a four-year, $160 million contract, includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, adding layers of complexity to any future negotiations.
Jerry Jones reflected on the nature of negotiations and existing contracts: "Well again, we're just continuing to talk. 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 10, 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."
Prescott, focused on his game and the upcoming season, has left 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, especially as we get right here into training camp. Day 1 of training camp, my mind flips to obviously helping my team and just doing everything I can within the organization and on the football field to make sure that I'm my best and everyone around me is their best. The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has," Prescott remarked.
Looking Ahead: Training and Challenges
The Cowboys are set to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. These events will be pivotal as the team continues to prepare for the upcoming season. The Cowboys will face the Cleveland Browns in Week 1, a formidable opponent that led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The Browns' defensive powerhouse Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, will be a significant challenge for the Cowboys' offense, which led the NFL in scoring last season with 29.9 points per game. Notably, 2023 marked Mike McCarthy's first season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller.
As the Cowboys return to Texas, the clock ticks on securing long-term deals for Prescott and Lamb. While Jerry and Stephen Jones remain hopeful, the future of these negotiations could shape the trajectory of the Cowboys' season and beyond.