The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up to close out their training camp as they head back to Texas, with heightened anticipation surrounding the future of two of their standout players—quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. Despite ongoing contract negotiations, both players have yet to sign long-term extensions, fueling speculation among fans and analysts alike.
Contract Negotiations Unresolved
Both team owner Jerry Jones and Executive Vice President Stephen Jones have been transparent about their commitment to retaining Prescott and Lamb. Jerry Jones expressed his optimism, albeit cautiously, 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."
Prescott's current contract, a four-year, $160 million deal that includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, was a notable highlight of recent seasons. Despite this, contract negotiations have been left to his agent Todd France. Prescott shared his perspective, saying, "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. 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."
Lamb, named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season, has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program, aiming to secure a deal before the final year of his rookie contract in 2024. Leading the NFL with 135 receptions in 2023, Lamb has proven himself as an invaluable asset. Jerry Jones has extended an offer making Lamb the second-highest-paid wide receiver on an average annual basis, trailing only Justin Jefferson, who signed a four-year, $135 million extension with $110 million guaranteed earlier this offseason. Jerry Jones remarked, "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."
Upcoming Challenges and Preparations
Despite the contract uncertainties, the Cowboys are moving forward with their preparations for the upcoming season. The team is set to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony the next day. With Mike McCarthy taking the reins as the offensive play-caller in 2023, the Cowboys' offense shone brightly, leading the NFL in scoring with 29.9 points per game. McCarthy is keen to integrate new elements and ensure a smooth transition for any returning players. He 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."
First Game and Defensive Challenges
The Cowboys will face the Cleveland Browns in their Week 1 matchup. The Browns boasted the NFL's top defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. Defensive end Myles Garrett's exceptional performance earned him the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year title, making the Browns a formidable opponent. The Cowboys' high-powered offense, led by Prescott who topped the NFL with 36 passing touchdowns in 2023, will need to be at its best to overcome the Browns' staunch defense.
Building Toward Success
As the Cowboys inch closer to the regular season, the focus remains on finalizing contract deals and synchronizing the team’s efforts on the field. Jerry Jones underscored the balance required, stating, "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."
As the clock ticks down to the season opener, all eyes will be on Dallas to see if the front office can secure the future of their key players while the team strategically prepares for the challenges ahead. The Cowboys' journey promises to be a thrilling one, with the potential for high-stakes performances on and off the field.