The Dallas Cowboys are nearing the conclusion of their training camp and are set to return to Texas, with a clear focus on two notable roster issues that remain unresolved: long-term extensions for quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Financial Future of Key Players
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming NFL season, the contractual situations of Prescott and Lamb have garnered significant attention. Both players are pivotal to the team's success, yet neither has secured a long-term deal. Jerry and Stephen Jones have been open about their intentions to retain both star athletes. Jerry Jones remarked, "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."
Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, is currently under a four-year, $160 million contract, which includes clauses prohibiting franchise tags and trades. However, with an eye towards the future, negotiations are still in play. "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," Prescott stated. "The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Lamb, named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in 2023, has also been a significant contributor, leading the NFL with 135 receptions last season. Despite playing a crucial role, Lamb has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program to secure a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Jerry Jones has reportedly offered Lamb a contract that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver on an annual basis, following the market-setting deal given to Justin Jefferson—a four-year, $135 million extension with $110 million guaranteed. "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," said Jones.
Upcoming Events and Season Outlook
As training camp draws to a close, the Cowboys have several key dates on the horizon. A training camp practice is scheduled for Aug. 27 at The Star in Frisco, Texas, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. The team is gearing up for their Week 1 clash against the Cleveland Browns, a formidable opponent that led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. Adding to the challenge, the Browns boast the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett.
Offensively, the Cowboys are coming off a successful season where they led the NFL in scoring with 29.9 points per game. 2023 marked Mike McCarthy's first season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller, and he is keen on building upon that momentum. "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," McCarthy said, emphasizing the importance of integrating new strategies and maintaining high performance.
Navigating Contract Negotiations
While the Cowboys remain focused on their upcoming games, the ongoing contract discussions are a significant subplot. Jerry Jones highlighted the complexity of negotiating while also preparing for the season. "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," Jones explained.
With both Prescott and Lamb being integral to the Cowboys' aspirations, the resolution of their contracts is paramount. As Prescott continues to delegate negotiations to his agent and remains focused on team performance, Lamb awaits a deal that aligns with his contributions and market value. The Cowboys' ability to balance immediate performance with long-term stability will shape their fortunes in the rapidly approaching NFL season.