CeeDee Lamb Returns to the Cowboys with Record-Breaking Contract Extension
CeeDee Lamb has officially rejoined the Dallas Cowboys, carrying the weight of a $136-million contract extension. The wide receiver, who showcased his talent and dedication over past seasons, sealed a four-year deal boasting a $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus. This substantial contract makes Lamb the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, sharing that distinction with Nick Bosa.
A Long-Awaited Return
Lamb’s return was greeted with palpable excitement among his teammates. Fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert recounted, "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.'" Celebrations erupted as players welcomed Lamb back, appreciating the hard work and dedication that led to his well-deserved contract.
The journey to resigning was not without its challenges. Lamb missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California, opting to hold out. During this time, he worked out in Texas and South Florida, notably adding 15 pounds of muscle. Despite the physical absence, Lamb stayed virtually connected with his team, interacting with teammates and coaches via his iPad. Jalen Tolbert mentioned, "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."
Overcoming Uncertainty and Locking in the Deal
The process leading to Lamb’s extension was fraught with anticipation and uncertainty. Reflecting on the holdout, Lamb admitted, "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient." The turning point came as his agent delivered unexpected news. "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south,'" Lamb narrated. But soon after, he was eager to finalize, saying, "Well, where do I sign?"
Commitment to Team and Performance
With the contract negotiations behind him, Lamb is fully focused on his on-field performance. The wide receiver emphasized his readiness, stating, "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities." Head coach Mike McCarthy affirmed that Lamb's role in the team remains unchanged. "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."
Throughout the holdout, Lamb made it a priority to maintain his chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott. Their bond was strengthened by regular practice sessions at Prescott's backyard field. "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 shared.
Looking Forward
Now that his contract situation is settled, Lamb is eager to shift his focus entirely to football. He expressed a sense of closure, "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."
Beyond his personal contract, Lamb has turned his attention to ensuring the Cowboys secure a deal with Prescott. He articulated his support, stating, "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."
The anticipation and anxiety of Lamb's holdout are now things of the past as he rejoins the Cowboys with renewed vigor and a robust contract. As fans and the organization breathe a collective sigh of relief, all eyes are now on Lamb, ready to see him soar to new heights with the team.