The Dallas Cowboys are approaching the culmination of their training camp and are set to return to Texas, with several critical matters still unresolved. Among the most pressing issues is the future of two of their star players: quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Both players have yet to secure long-term extensions, despite the clear intent from team executives to retain them.
Contract Negotiations in the Spotlight
Jerry and Stephen Jones have been transparent in their desire to keep Prescott and Lamb in Dallas. Jerry Jones expressed optimism, saying, "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." However, the uncertainty surrounding these negotiations has sparked considerable speculation about whether deals will be finalized before the season kicks off.
For CeeDee Lamb, an offer has been extended that would make him the second-highest-paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, just trailing Justin Jefferson, who recently secured a four-year, $135 million extension with $110 million guaranteed. Lamb, who was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in 2023 and led the NFL with 135 receptions last season, has been holding out from the Cowboys' offseason program as he seeks a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
Prescott’s Contract Situation
Dak Prescott, the NFL leader in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, is also at a critical juncture in his career. He is currently on a four-year, $160 million contract that includes both a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause. While contract negotiations continue, Prescott has left the details to his agent, Todd France. Reflecting on the situation, Prescott stated, "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, especially as we get right here into training camp. Day 1 of training camp, my mind flips to obviously helping my team and just doing everything I can within the organization and on the football field to make sure that I'm my best and everyone around me is their best. The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has."
Cowboys Preparing for the Season
The team is 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. They will face the Cleveland Browns in Week 1, presenting a challenging early test. The Browns led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game, and boast Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Despite the looming contract issues, the Cowboys' offense was the highest-scoring unit in the NFL last season, averaging 29.9 points per game. This offensive prowess was partly due to the leadership of Mike McCarthy, who, in his first season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller, brought fresh strategies and effective game plans to the team. McCarthy remains confident in the team's trajectory, stating, "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. Yeah, we'll get that done."
Optimism Amid Uncertainty
Jerry Jones encapsulated the current mood, emphasizing the delicate balance between ongoing contract talks and the team's preparations for the upcoming 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. None of us -- player or team -- want to hurt the preparation or likelihood of playing at your best."
As the Cowboys head back to Texas, the focus remains on securing key player contracts without disrupting their preparation. With the season opener against the Browns rapidly approaching, the Cowboys aim to maintain their high-powered offensive momentum while resolving contract situations to secure their long-term goals.