The Dallas Cowboys are preparing to wrap up their training camp and head back to Texas, with a lot of attention on contracts as they gear up for the 2023 NFL season. Leading the conversation are quarterback Dak Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, both of whom have yet to sign long-term extensions.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Jerry and Stephen Jones have expressed clear intentions to retain both Prescott and Lamb. "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, highlighting the team's commitment to securing their star players.
Contract Speculation Looms
The contracts of Prescott and Lamb have sparked speculation on whether deals will be finalized before the season kicks off. Lamb, who was named a first-team All-Pro wide receiver last season after leading the NFL with 135 receptions, has held out from the Cowboys' offseason program in hopes of securing a deal beyond the final year of his rookie contract in 2024.
Jerry Jones has reportedly extended an offer to Lamb that would make him the second-highest paid wide receiver on an average annual basis. This comes after Justin Jefferson set the market with a four-year, $135 million extension, including $110 million guaranteed. "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, underscoring the club's determination.
Prescott Focused on the Game
Meanwhile, Dak Prescott, who led the NFL in passing touchdowns in 2023 with 36, continues to focus on preparing for the season. His current four-year, $160 million contract includes a no-franchise tag clause and a no-trade clause, giving him significant leverage. Prescott has left contract negotiations to his agent, Todd France, stating, "There's been conversations back and forth, but for the most part for me as y'all know, I let my agent 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."
Preparing for the Season
The Cowboys will host a training camp practice at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on August 27, followed by a season kickoff ceremony on August 28. They will then face the Cleveland Browns in Week 1. The Browns come into the season with a formidable defense that led the NFL in total defense last year, allowing just 270.2 total yards per game. They are anchored by Myles Garrett, who was named the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
On the offensive side, the Cowboys led the NFL in scoring last season with 29.9 points per game, marking a successful first season for Mike McCarthy as the Cowboys' offensive play-caller. "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, indicating the team's readiness to integrate Lamb fully once his contract situation is resolved.
As the Cowboys head back to Texas, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on the developments surrounding Prescott's and Lamb's contracts. The Cowboys' front office remains optimistic that agreements will be reached, allowing the team to focus on what matters most: kicking off the season strong and aiming for success on the field.