The Dallas Cowboys are nearing the conclusion of their training camp, with the team set to return to Texas. Central to the Cowboys' preparations for the season are contract negotiations involving key players quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, both of whom are yet to sign long-term extensions.
Prescott and Lamb: The Negotiation Saga
Jerry and Stephen Jones have been forthcoming about their desire to retain Prescott and Lamb. The contracts of these star players have ignited speculation on whether deals will be finalized before the season opener. Jerry Jones, in addressing reporters, expressed cautious optimism about the ongoing talks. "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," Jones said.
Prescott's current contract, a four-year, $160 million deal, includes clauses that prevent a franchise tag or trade. As negotiations intensify, Prescott has delegated the responsibility to his agent, Todd France. "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, 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," Prescott remarked.
Lamb's Standout Season and Contract Talks
Meanwhile, CeeDee Lamb is making a statement by holding out from the Cowboys' offseason program. Lamb, aiming to secure a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024, led the NFL with 135 receptions in the 2023 season and earned a first-team All-Pro nod. Jerry Jones has reportedly extended an offer to Lamb that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis. Lamb’s performance has justified such considerations, but Jones remains realistic yet hopeful about the ongoing dialogue, stating, "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."
The negotiations are set against the backdrop of a dynamic offseason market for wide receivers, highlighted by Justin Jefferson’s four-year, $135 million extension, which included $110 million guaranteed. As Lamb and the Cowboys navigate these waters, coach Mike McCarthy acknowledges the importance of integrating Lamb effectively once an agreement is reached. "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.
Season Preparations and Early Challenges
As the Cowboys gear up for the 2023 season, they are set to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on Aug. 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on Aug. 28. Their first game will see them face the Cleveland Browns, a formidable opponent that led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The Browns' defense is anchored by Myles Garrett, who was named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
The Cowboys' offense, on the other hand, led the league in scoring last season with an average of 29.9 points per game. This success came during Mike McCarthy's first season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller, showcasing the team’s potent attack under his guidance. Prescott was instrumental in this offensive performance, leading the NFL in passing touchdowns with 36 in 2023.
As the Cowboys' faithful await the final whistle on contract talks, the focus remains on maintaining a balanced preparation for the season. Jerry Jones emphasized the significance of operating within the existing contracts while also engaging in necessary discussions. "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," Jones stated.
The clock is ticking for the Cowboys to finalize these pivotal extensions, ensuring that key players remain locked in as the team strives for success in the upcoming season. Football fans will certainly keep a keen eye on developments in Dallas, eagerly anticipating the resolution of these critical negotiations as the Cowboys work towards their ultimate goal.