Dallas Cowboys Close in on Season Opener, Contract Negotiations Heat Up
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns, attention is increasingly focused on the looming contract situations of two of their star players—CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott. With just 18 days remaining before the season kicks off, the Cowboys find themselves in a race against time to secure the long-term services of these pivotal athletes.
Lamb, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, has been a standout performer since joining the league. At 25 years old, he led the NFL with a staggering 135 catches last season, solidifying his status as one of the league's elite wide receivers. However, Lamb has held out of Dallas' entire offseason program, signaling his desire for a new contract that reflects his value.
The Cowboys have extended an offer to Lamb that is reported to be "slightly under $33 million per season." This figure places him just above Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown, who commands an average annual salary of $32 million. Yet, Lamb's camp is likely eyeing contracts like that of Justin Jefferson, who recently signed a four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings, including $110 million guaranteed.
On the other side of the ball, quarterback Dak Prescott is also in the final year of his current deal—a four-year, $160 million contract that includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. Turning 31 this offseason, Prescott may enter unrestricted free agency next offseason if the Cowboys and his representatives fail to reach a new agreement. His future remains a critical concern for the Cowboys' front office.
The Cowboys' owner, Jerry Jones, has expressed optimism regarding the negotiations. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones said. He also emphasized the club's commitment to Lamb, stating, "The facts are that I believe we'll come together. 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."
Jones's comments suggest a sense of urgency but also a belief that a resolution is within reach. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk," he said, projecting cautious optimism about the ongoing discussions.
The contract talks have added a layer of complexity to the Cowboys' preparations for the season opener. Jones elaborated on the challenges of negotiating during the regular season: "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 ten, 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."
Despite the contract concerns, the Cowboys are poised to begin the season with high expectations. The resolutions of Lamb's and Prescott's contract situations will undoubtedly shape the team's future, making these negotiations some of the most pivotal moments in recent franchise history. As the clock ticks toward the season opener, all eyes will be on the Cowboys' front office and their efforts to secure deals that will keep their stars shining in Dallas for years to come.