In a triumphant return to the field, CeeDee Lamb has rejoined the Dallas Cowboys after inking a momentous four-year, $136 million contract extension. This lucrative deal makes Lamb the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tied with San Francisco 49ers' Nick Bosa.
A Contract Worthy of a Star
Lamb's new contract is no small feat, featuring a $34 million average annual salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus. Only Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings surpasses him with a $35 million average per year.
The road to securing this extension was not without its challenges. Lamb missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California during his holdout. During this period, Lamb focused on his physical conditioning, working out in Texas and South Florida, and added 15 pounds of muscle.
"I can't really put it into words. I tell them I'm grateful to be here every moment of the day. This whole process was very crazy for me, as we all know. Very bittersweet," Lamb shared, reflecting on the journey.
Maintaining Connections Despite the Absence
Despite his absence from team activities, Lamb stayed connected with his teammates and coaches through his iPad. He made it a priority to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field, ensuring their on-field chemistry remained intact. Jalen Tolbert, a fellow Cowboys player, noted Lamb's dedication, saying, "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."
Lamb's commitment also extended to virtual interactions. "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,'" Tolbert recounted, spotlighting the enthusiasm surrounding Lamb's return.
Back with a Purpose
Now that the contract negotiations are behind him, Lamb's focus is back on the field. "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," he remarked confidently. His physical transformation is expected to bolster his resilience throughout the grueling NFL season.
Head Coach Mike McCarthy emphasized that Lamb's role within 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," McCarthy stated, underscoring Lamb's continued importance to the Cowboys' offensive strategy.
Looking Ahead to Greater Success
Lamb's camaraderie with Prescott and his clear-eyed focus on the game signal promising days ahead for the Cowboys. "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 explained, noting the uninterrupted practice sessions which have kept their partnership sharp.
The star wide receiver also emphasized the importance of securing Prescott's contract extension, aligning this with the team's unified goals. "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," he expressed, urging swift resolution to any remaining contractual uncertainties.
Lamb's reintroduction to the Cowboys at the Ford Center marks a significant step forward not just for him but for the team as a whole. "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south,' and I responded with 'Well, where do I sign?'" Lamb's anecdote encapsulates the whirlwind of negotiations that ultimately secured his future with the Cowboys.
A Resounding Homecoming
The excitement surrounding Lamb's return is palpable, both within the team and among the fans. "Everyone was like, 'Hey Cee[Dee].' Just having that moment with him after he got what he deserved. We know that he works hard for what he got. So it's special to see a guy like that," Tolbert shared, echoing the sentiment of many within the organization.
As Lamb steps back onto the field with a fortified resolve and a renewed sense of purpose, the Cowboys and their fans can look forward to the season with optimism. The synergy between Lamb's talent and his strengthened physique, paired with an unbroken bond with his quarterback, promises an exciting chapter in the Cowboys' journey.