Cowboys Nearing End of Training Camp Amid Contract Talks for Prescott and Lamb
The Dallas Cowboys are on the cusp of concluding their training camp, ready to head back to Texas with a wave of anticipation surrounding their season kickoff. This period of preparation, however, has not been without its share of speculations and high-stakes negotiations, especially concerning the futures of two key players: quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
Both Prescott and Lamb have yet to secure long-term extensions, a situation that has generated considerable buzz among fans and analysts alike. Despite the ongoing uncertainty, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and his son Stephen have been transparent about their intent to retain both athletes. “We’re in good shape there. We're having good talks,” Jerry Jones shared optimistically.
Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, is currently operating under a four-year, $160 million contract that includes no-franchise tag and no-trade clauses. He has left contract negotiations to his agent, Todd France, allowing him to focus on his on-field performance. "The money and all that will take care of itself as it always has," Prescott reassured.
The focus on Prescott is paralleled by equally significant attention to Lamb, who has become a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ offensive lineup. Lamb was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season, leading the NFL with 135 receptions. This impressive feat has undoubtedly strengthened his bargaining position as he looks to secure a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
Lamb has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program to emphasize his stance for a new contract. Jerry Jones has reportedly extended an offer that would make Lamb the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis. This comes after Justin Jefferson reset the market with a four-year, $135 million extension, inclusive of $110 million guaranteed.
Despite these intense negotiations, Jerry Jones expressed optimism, stating, “We wouldn’t have offered him what we’ve offered him if we didn’t want him to be here.” Jones' remarks underline the Cowboys' commitment to retaining Lamb, though the timeline for reaching a finalized deal remains uncertain.
In the backdrop of these negotiations, the Cowboys continue their preparations for the upcoming 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. The team will face a significant test in Week 1, going up against the Cleveland Browns, who led the NFL in total defense last season, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The Browns' defensive prowess is headlined by Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
The Cowboys' offensive unit, meanwhile, comes off a season where they led the NFL in scoring with an impressive 29.9 points per game. This offensive firepower was orchestrated by head coach Mike McCarthy, serving in his first season as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller. McCarthy is preparing to integrate new strategies and ensure smooth offensive operations. “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," McCarthy explained.
As training camp nears its end, the Cowboys find themselves at a critical juncture. With essential contract extensions for Prescott and Lamb still in the balance, the team's management aims to strike a harmonious balance between retaining top talent and maintaining focus on their performance. The unfolding of these negotiations and the subsequent impact on the season opener will be watched closely by all invested in the Cowboys' success.