CeeDee Lamb Rejoins Cowboys with Major Contract Extension
In an anticipated and celebrated return, CeeDee Lamb has rejoined the Dallas Cowboys following a holdout that had both fans and the organization on edge. Lamb’s re-signing comes with a four-year, $136-million contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid non-quarterbacks in the NFL.
With an average annual salary of $34 million, a whopping $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus, Lamb’s contract solidifies his position among the league's elite. Only Justin Jefferson surpasses him with a $35 million average per year, while Lamb is tied with Nick Bosa in the non-quarterback earnings race.
Lamb’s absence throughout the organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California had stirred considerable anxiety among the Cowboys' faithful. During his holdout, Lamb opted to stay in shape through rigorous workouts in Texas and South Florida, adding 15 pounds of muscle to better prepare for the upcoming season.
Despite his physical absence, Lamb managed to stay connected with his teammates and coaches. "He was plugged in. I woke up some mornings, and he texts me like 'Good morning bro, have a great day.' Or, he'll tell me about something that happened on the field," shared fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert.
Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed that despite the new contract, Lamb’s role on the team remains unchanged. "CeeDee's role will not change. He was our premier receiver last year. Our approach with him will be similar. I don't see that changing," McCarthy stated.
Lamb's dedication to maintaining rapport with his quarterback, Dak Prescott, has been critical. "We got our reps in for sure. The best thing about it, him having a field in his backyard. So anytime I came back home [from training in Florida], it was time [to throw with Prescott]," said Lamb, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their on-field chemistry.
The reintroduction of Lamb to the Cowboys was nothing short of a celebratory moment. At the Ford Center, the mere sight of him brought cheers and relief. "We just heard a bunch of cheering, and we turn around, and he's [Lamb] walking through things like 'It's great to be back,'" Tolbert recounted. Tolbert highlighted Lamb's work ethic, saying, "Just having that moment with him after he got what he deserved. We know that he works hard for what he got. So it's special to see a guy like that."
Lamb himself acknowledged the ups and downs of the negotiation process. "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient," he reflected. The relief was palpable when the deal was finalized. Recalling the moment, Lamb said, "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south.' Well, where do I sign?"
With the contract issues settled, Lamb is now entirely focused on the season ahead. "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," he confidently stated.
Lamb also stressed the importance of securing Dak Prescott's contract extension. "You look at our numbers together, they're at the top of the charts. I have no doubt that they're going to get a deal done. We all know that I want Dak here. Jerry wants Dak here, too, so let's just get this under control and kill the speculation and let's go win," Lamb urged.
As Lamb transitions back to on-field action, the unity and excitement within the team are clear. "We had a businessman conversation. Just had to clear the room. Everything is behind us. I'm not worried about nothing. We got what we needed to get done. Now it's time for me to go ball," Lamb concluded.
With the looming season, the Dallas Cowboys and their fans can now breathe easy, knowing CeeDee Lamb is back and ready to make an impact, reinforcing his position as one of the league’s top wide receivers.