The Dallas Cowboys are nearing the end of their training camp, soon to leave for Texas with significant questions lingering around their roster. Central to these concerns are quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, both yet to secure long-term contracts.
Contract Negotiations and Speculation
The spotlight remains on the front office's efforts to retain Prescott and Lamb, with franchise owner Jerry Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones making their intentions clear. They aim to keep both stars in Dallas and have made substantial offers to ensure their future with the team. "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 shared, emphasizing his confidence in finalizing the deals.
The urgency surrounding these negotiations stems partly from the performances of both players in the 2023 season. Dak Prescott led the NFL in passing touchdowns with 36, while CeeDee Lamb was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver and led the league with 135 receptions. Lamb's stellar play has driven him to hold out from the offseason program, aiming to secure an extension beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
Lamb's Market Value and Team Impact
Setting the standard for wide receiver contracts this offseason, Justin Jefferson's four-year, $135 million extension, which includes $110 million guaranteed, has significantly influenced Lamb's negotiations. Jerry Jones has extended an offer that would make Lamb the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis.
CeeDee Lamb's absence from training camp has raised questions about the team's offensive readiness. Head coach Mike McCarthy commented, "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."
Prescott's Position and Future with the Cowboys
Turning to Dak Prescott, his current four-year, $160 million contract includes pivotal clauses such as a no-franchise tag and a no-trade clause. Despite the steady progress in negotiations, Prescott has left most of the discussions to his agent, Todd France. The quarterback remains focused on his performance and preparation. "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," Prescott said. "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."
Upcoming Events and Season Opener
The Cowboys 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 preparations will culminate in a Week 1 showdown against the Cleveland Browns. The Browns, boasting the NFL's top defense in 2023 with just 270.2 total yards allowed per game, present a formidable challenge. Adding to the stakes, Myles Garrett enters the game as the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Despite these challenges, the Cowboys' offense has shown exceptional potential, leading the NFL with 29.9 points per game last season. This success marks head coach Mike McCarthy's first year as the offensive play-caller, hinting at a promising season ahead.
As the Cowboys draw closer to the new season, much hinges on the resolution of Prescott's and Lamb's contracts. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the team's leadership can secure the futures of their key players, ensuring that the Cowboys remain competitive and cohesive as the season unfolds.