Cowboys Wrap Up Training Camp Amid Contract Talks
The Dallas Cowboys are nearing the end of their training camp and are set to return to Texas, with significant contract negotiations still unresolved. The futures of quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb hang in the balance as both players have yet to secure long-term extensions. This uncertainty hasn't dampened the spirits within the organization, but it has certainly dominated the offseason narrative.
Prescott and Lamb, two pivotal figures for the Cowboys, are currently negotiating extensions that many fans and analysts hope will be finalized before the season kicks off. Jerry Jones, the team owner, and his son Stephen Jones have been transparent about their intentions to retain both players.
"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," said Jerry Jones, expressing cautious optimism regarding the ongoing discussions.
Lamb's Stellar 2023 Season
CeeDee Lamb, who was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver in the 2023 season, led the NFL with 135 receptions, demonstrating his vital role in the Cowboys' offense. Despite his impressive performance, Lamb has held out from the team's offseason program, seeking a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract, which expires in 2024. Jerry Jones has offered Lamb a contract that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver based on average annual value, clearly signaling the team's commitment to retaining his talents.
"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," Jones added, emphasizing the Cowboys' desire to keep Lamb on the roster.
Lamb's holdout has brought attention to the broader trend in the NFL, where players often negotiate new deals well before their current contracts expire. While this might raise questions about team dynamics, Jerry Jones remains confident that the situation will not affect the team's preparations for the upcoming season.
"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," Jerry Jones explained.
Prescott's Leadership and Contract Status
Meanwhile, Dak Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, is focused on leading his team on the field. Prescott's current deal, a four-year, $160 million contract, includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, giving him significant security. Nevertheless, discussions about further extensions are ongoing, handled by 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. 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," Prescott stated, demonstrating his commitment to the team's immediate goals.
With the Cowboys set to host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on August 28, the focus is sharply on preparedness and execution. Head coach Mike McCarthy, who led the Cowboys to the top of the NFL in scoring last season with 29.9 points per game, is primed to build on that success.
"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," said McCarthy, highlighting the importance of Lamb's eventual return to the squad.
Looking to the Season Opener
As the Cowboys gear up for Week 1, they face a formidable opponent in the Cleveland Browns, who led the NFL in total defense in 2023, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. The Browns' Myles Garrett, named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, will be a significant challenge for the Cowboys' high-powered offense.
The Cowboys, armed with the NFL's top-scoring offense and Prescott's impressive leadership, are setting out to prove that they can maintain their offensive prowess while resolving the contract situations of their key players. With optimism from the front office and focused preparation on the field, the Cowboys are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting NFL season.