CeeDee Lamb Secures $136 Million Extension, Returns to the Field
After a prolonged absence from the Cowboys during the offseason, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has finally agreed to a lucrative four-year, $136 million extension. The deal includes $100 million guaranteed and a record $38 million signing bonus, making Lamb one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL, second only to Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings.
Lamb’s absence had been a hot topic throughout the Cowboys’ offseason, especially after he skipped OTAs in an effort to secure a new contract. The tension escalated when Cowboys owner Jerry Jones downplayed the urgency of completing the deal, which led to a brief social media exchange with Lamb expressing his displeasure. However, as the preseason drew to a close, Jones and the Cowboys front office managed to finalize the deal just in time for the season opener, ensuring that quarterback Dak Prescott will have his primary target back on the field.
Head coach Mike McCarthy expressed relief and excitement over Lamb’s return, emphasizing the importance of having the star receiver fully integrated into the team’s game plan as they approach the start of the season. McCarthy praised Lamb’s versatility and talent, highlighting his ability to excel in multiple positions and his impact on the team’s offensive strategy.
Dalvin Cook Visits Dallas: Cowboys Explore Veteran RB Options
In other news, the Cowboys are hosting veteran running back Dalvin Cook for a visit, signaling their interest in bolstering the backfield despite having Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle ready for the regular season. Cook, who spent his first five seasons under Cowboys’ new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer in Minnesota, has an impressive resume, including four Pro Bowl selections and over 5,000 rushing yards in the last four seasons.
Cook’s 2023 season was less productive, splitting time between the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens, but after rehabbing from shoulder surgery, he reportedly feels better than he has in years. His visit to Dallas suggests the Cowboys are considering additional depth and experience in their running game as they aim to make a strong push this season.
Dak Prescott and Micah Parsons: Contract Talks Continue
While the Cowboys have locked in Lamb, the focus now shifts to other key players, including quarterback Dak Prescott and linebacker Micah Parsons. According to reports, there hasn’t been much progress on contract extensions for either player, though the Cowboys are expected to prioritize these negotiations now that Lamb’s deal is finalized.
Prescott, who is entering the final year of his current contract, is likely to command a significant raise, especially in light of recent deals signed by quarterbacks like Trevor Lawrence and Tua Tagovailoa. Parsons, who is under contract through 2025, remains a critical piece of the Cowboys’ defense, and his performance in the coming seasons will likely determine the value of his next contract.
Jerry Jones: Pressure Brings Out the Best
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones remains confident that the pressure of being in a contract year will drive both the players and coaching staff to perform at their best. With head coach Mike McCarthy also in the final year of his contract, Jones believes the “angst and pressure” will bring out the best in everyone involved, pushing the Cowboys toward another successful season.
Trey Lance’s Future in Dallas: Trade Talks Loom
The trade speculation surrounding backup quarterback Trey Lance continues as the Cowboys head into the regular season. While Lance is currently on the roster, his $5.3 million cap hit makes him an expensive option for a QB3 position. Owner Jerry Jones has publicly stated that the team plans to keep Lance, but behind-the-scenes discussions could lead to a trade if the right offer comes along.
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