The Dallas Cowboys are reaching a critical juncture as they near the conclusion of their training camp, and key contract negotiations loom large over their return to Texas. With star players like quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb yet to secure long-term extensions, the Cowboys' front office, led by Jerry and Stephen Jones, remains optimistic about retaining their top talents.
Contract Talks Heating Up
Both Prescott and Lamb are integral to the Cowboys' offensive prowess. Lamb, coming off an impressive 2023 season where he was named a first-team All-Pro and led the NFL with 135 receptions, has openly stated his desire for a new deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract. His decision to hold out from the offseason program underscores the urgency of these negotiations.
Jerry Jones has expressed a strong desire to keep Lamb in Dallas, offering a contract that would make him the second-highest-paid wide receiver in the league on an average annual basis. The recent market-setting extension signed by Justin Jefferson, a four-year, $135 million deal with $110 million guaranteed, has undoubtedly influenced these negotiations.
Quarterback Stability
Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns with 36 last season, is also at a pivotal point in his career. His current contract, a four-year, $160 million deal that includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, leaves the Cowboys with limited negotiating leverage. Prescott has opted to leave contract discussions to his agent, Todd France, focusing instead on his performance on the field.
Leadership's Perspective
Jerry Jones remains hopeful about reaching agreements with both Prescott and Lamb, stating, "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." His comments reflect a balancing act between optimism and the reality of NFL contract negotiations.
Jones elaborated on the importance of these discussions, especially with the season fast approaching. "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," Jones explained. "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."
Both team and player aim to avoid any distractions that could jeopardize their preparation and performance. According to Jones, "None of us -- player or team -- want to hurt the preparation or likelihood of playing at your best."
Coaching and Preparation
Head coach Mike McCarthy, entering his second season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller, is also keeping a close eye on Lamb's situation. "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," McCarthy said, emphasizing the need for seamless integration once Lamb returns to the fold.
With the Cowboys hosting a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony the next day, the pressure is on to finalize these deals. The opening game against the Cleveland Browns, who led the NFL in total defense last season, will pose a significant challenge. The Browns allowed just 270.2 total yards per game, and their star defender, Myles Garrett, was named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Despite these challenges, the Cowboys' offense, which led the league in scoring with 29.9 points per game last season, is poised to make a strong impact. Much of this success can be attributed to McCarthy's leadership and Prescott's performance. "There's been conversations back and forth," Prescott noted, "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."
As the Cowboys gear up for the season, all eyes will be on how these contract negotiations unfold and how the team manages to integrate key players back into their system without missing a beat.