Countdown to Kickoff: Dallas Cowboys Face Contract Dilemmas as Season Nears
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their 2024 NFL regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns in a mere 18 days, the focus is not solely on the game plan. Much attention is being paid to the contract situations of two of the team's cornerstone players: wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott.
Both Lamb and Prescott are entering the final year of their respective contracts, raising questions about their long-term futures with the franchise. For Lamb, the 25-year-old All-Pro wide receiver, this season represents the culmination of his rookie contract. Lamb, who led the league with 135 catches last season, has been noticeably absent from Dallas' entire offseason program.
Lamb's Contract Conundrum
Lamb's holdout underscores the seriousness of his contract negotiations. The Cowboys have extended an offer reported to be "slightly under $33 million per season" to retain him. This figure is competitive but falls just short of the $32 million annual salary of Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown. Additionally, it's worth noting that Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson recently secured a four-year, $140 million extension, which includes a staggering $110 million guaranteed.
Despite the negotiations, team owner Jerry Jones remains optimistic. "We're in good shape there. We're having good talks. I think I am [optimistic]," Jones said. He continued, "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."
Prescott's Future in Dallas
Turning to the quarterback position, Dak Prescott is entering the final season of a four-year, $160 million contract, a deal that includes both a no-franchise-tag clause and a no-trade clause. As Prescott celebrates his 31st birthday, the negotiation table looms large. If an agreement isn't reached, Prescott could enter unrestricted free agency next offseason, a situation that would undoubtedly attract widespread attention from around the league.
Jones has commented on the ongoing negotiations with Prescott, emphasizing the complexity of the situation. "Well again, we're just continuing to talk," he said. "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."
The Pressure is On
As the clock ticks down to the season opener, the pressure is mounting for both the players and the organization. The Cowboys need Lamb's contributions if they hope to maintain a competitive edge in one of the toughest divisions in football. Similarly, Prescott's leadership and on-field acumen are integral to the Cowboys' offensive success.
These negotiations are critical not just for the immediate season but for the long-term strategic planning of the franchise. Locking down key talent is essential for sustained success, and the Cowboys' front office is acutely aware of the stakes involved.
Whether or not these contract situations will be resolved swiftly remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: the Dallas Cowboys are at a critical juncture as they navigate the dual challenges of preparing for a new season and securing the futures of their star players.