As the countdown to the NFL 2024 regular season continues, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves not only preparing for their opener against the Cleveland Browns but also navigating some significant contract negotiations. With just 18 days remaining until the season kicks off, attention is fixated on the futures of two pivotal players: First Team All-Pro wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and Second Team All-Pro quarterback Dak Prescott.
Key Contract Negotiations
Both Lamb and Prescott are entering the final year of their current deals, propelling the discussions surrounding their contract extensions into high gear. CeeDee Lamb, who led the league with 135 catches last season, is wrapping up his rookie contract at the age of 25. His standout performance has undoubtedly placed him in a commanding position as he negotiates with the Cowboys. Despite holding out of Dallas' entire offseason program, Lamb remains an integral part of the team’s future plans.
"We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," said Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. He further elaborated, "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."
Offers and Comparisons
Dallas has reportedly extended an offer "slightly under $33 million per season" to Lamb. This figure contrasts with the $32 million average annual salary of Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown. Meanwhile, the market for elite receivers has been clearly set by Justin Jefferson’s recent four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, which includes $110 million guaranteed. Lamb’s contract situation is undoubtedly influenced by these precedents.
Jones remained hopeful about the ongoing negotiations, stating, "Well again, we're just continuing to talk."
Prescott's Contract Situation
On the other side of the field, Dak Prescott is in the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract. The deal includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause, giving Prescott considerable leverage in discussions. Turning 31 this offseason, Prescott’s future with the team is under the microscope. Should a new agreement not be reached, the quarterback could enter unrestricted free agency next offseason.
"The thing is there, since we're really in-season, practicing, doing all those things, we're operating under the existing contract really good," Jones explained. "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."
Season Opener and Future Goals
As the Cowboys gear up for their season opener, the resolution of these contract talks looms large. Both Lamb and Prescott are critical to the Cowboys' aspirations this season and beyond. Their performances and leadership are expected to play significant roles in the team’s pursuit of success. With negotiations ongoing and the season fast approaching, the stakes are high, and every move is being closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
In this high-stakes environment, the Cowboys must balance their immediate season preparations with the need to secure their key talents for the future. The outcomes of these negotiations could shape the team's trajectory for years to come, making every conversation and offer pivotal. As Jones rightly pointed out, it’s a delicate balance between honoring existing contracts and ensuring that both the players and the team are set up for future success without disrupting the present focus on performance.