CeeDee Lamb Returns to Cowboys with $136 Million Extension
In a moment that Dallas Cowboys fans had eagerly anticipated, star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has rejoined the team after signing a lucrative four-year, $136-million contract extension. This massive deal makes Lamb the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tying him with San Francisco 49ers' Nick Bosa. Only Minnesota Vikings' Justin Jefferson outranks him with a $35 million average annual salary.
The deal is stacked with impressive financial terms, including a $34 million average yearly salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus. This extension comes after an offseason marked by Lamb's holdout, during which he missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and the Cowboys' training camp in Oxnard, California.
The Holdout and the Workout
While away from the team, Lamb trained independently in Texas and South Florida, focusing on his physical preparation. He added 15 pounds of muscle during this period, becoming, as he put it, "prepared for my opportunities." Despite his absence, Lamb maintained strong ties with his teammates and coaching staff, staying connected through his iPad and frequently exchanging messages.
Jalen Tolbert, a fellow Cowboys player, recounted one memorable moment when Lamb returned, stating, "We just heard a bunch of cheering, and we turn around, and he's [Lamb] walking through like, 'It's great to be back.'" Tolbert added, "Everyone was like, 'Hey Cee[Dee].' 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."
During his holdout, Lamb also made an effort to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field. "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]," Lamb said.
Overcoming Negotiation Hurdles
The contract negotiation was not without its challenges. Lamb experienced his share of uncertainty and impatience during the process. Reflecting on the rollercoaster of negotiations, he shared, "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south.'" Despite these moments, Lamb remained confident that a deal would be reached. "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient," he admitted.
When the moment finally arrived, Lamb was ready. "Well, where do I sign?" he recalled asking, eager to commit to the team he has grown to love. Expressing his gratitude, Lamb said, "I can't really put it into words. I tell them I'm grateful to be here every moment of the day. This whole process was very crazy for me, as we all know. Very bittersweet."
Focus on the Future
With the contract settled, Lamb is now fully focused on his performance on the field. "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," he stated confidently. Head coach Mike McCarthy also reiterated Lamb's role in the team, emphasizing, "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."
Outside of his personal contract, Lamb has taken a keen interest in securing the future of his teammates, notably quarterback Dak Prescott. "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 [Jones] wants Dak here, too, so let's just get this under control and kill the speculation and let's go win," Lamb emphasized.
Return to the Fold
Lamb’s return to the Cowboys was a moment of relief and celebration. The reintroduction took place at the Ford Center, where the atmosphere was electric. His return has not only bolstered the spirits of his teammates and coaches but also provided a sense of relief to fans who were anxious during his absence. Tolbert summed up the collective sentiment, recounting, "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."
As Lamb transitions back to regular play, the focus will be on how this newly reinforced version of himself will elevate the Cowboys' game. With his financial future secured, all eyes are on CeeDee Lamb as he aims to make a significant impact in the upcoming NFL season, taking every opportunity on the field and working towards a common goal with his team.