Dallas Cowboys Wrap Up Training Camp Amid Contract Talks for Prescott and Lamb
As the Dallas Cowboys bring their training camp to a close and prepare to return to Texas, the team finds itself grappling with critical contract negotiations for two of its cornerstone players: quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Both players, pivotal to the Cowboys' high-octane offense, have yet to agree to long-term extensions, a situation casting a shadow over the team’s preseason activities.
Owner Jerry Jones and his son Stephen, both deeply involved in team operations, have communicated their clear intent to retain 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 said, underscoring the team's positive outlook despite the ongoing uncertainty.
Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, is operating under a four-year, $160 million contract, complete with a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. Notably, he has delegated the responsibility 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 do that, especially as we get right here into training camp," Prescott said. "The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Lamb, who was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season and led the NFL with 135 receptions, has similarly held out from the Cowboys' offseason program, aiming to secure a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Jerry Jones emphasized the organization's desire to keep Lamb part of the team's future. "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," Jones said, hinting at an offer that would make Lamb the second-highest paid wide receiver on an annual average basis.
The ongoing negotiations are occurring against the backdrop of strong individual and team performances from the previous season. Under the guidance of Mike McCarthy, who marked his first season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller in 2023, the Cowboys led the league in scoring, averaging 29.9 points per game. McCarthy, aware of the importance of integrating new elements into the team’s strategy, remarked, "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… but he's going to need some reps. Yeah, we'll get that done."
The Cowboys' upcoming schedule adds to the urgency. They are set to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on August 28. Their first regular-season game pits them against the Cleveland Browns, a formidable opponent that led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing a mere 270.2 total yards per game. Myles Garrett, the Browns' defensive powerhouse, was honored as the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, making the Week 1 matchup an early test for the Cowboys’ leading offense.
While the Cowboys continue their preparation for the season’s start, Jerry Jones remains optimistic about reaching agreements that will keep both Prescott and Lamb in Cowboys uniforms for years to come. "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," Jones explained. "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."
In summary, the Dallas Cowboys are navigating crucial contract talks while making final preparations for the 2023 NFL season. The resolutions of these negotiations will play a significant role in shaping the team's future, both on and off the field. As these evolving scenarios unfold, the broader Cowboys organization remains focused on maintaining the momentum they’ve built from last year’s successes.