Four days before the Dallas Cowboys’ inaugural preseason game, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb’s owner Jerry Jones stated there was no “urgency” to work out an extension.
Jones attempted to contain the outrage over his remarks just minutes before the Cowboys’ season opener.
Speaking before Sunday’s Cowboys vs. Los Angeles Rams game, Jones made an effort to make it clear that Lamb will not be playing in the preseason, so there is no need to get him ready just yet.
In a pregame interview, Jones stated, “I think I got in trouble the other day when I said, ‘Look, we are not urgent about CeeDee.'” “Well, I think CeeDee is more appreciated on the field than anyone else is. However, allow me to say this: If he had been here for [training camp], he would not be snapping out of it today.
“When exposing important players, you have to employ common sense. This allows the younger players an opportunity to try it out. We are fully aware of CeeDee’s capabilities, and he has practiced with Dak. Thus, he would not be present here. His contract really has no bearing on anything.”
Many took Jones’ remarks on Thursday to be about Lamb’s contract demands. Given that the recipient replied with a “lol” social media post, one would presume that he was among those who interpreted it that way.
Along with Lamb, quarterback Dak Prescott, who is also out Sunday, told reporters on Thursday that he felt “urgency for it to happen.”
Despite getting into some “trouble” and changing his song, Jones’ Pro Bowl wide receiver is still holding out for a big contract extension.
Three days ago, the Cowboys owner attempted to clarify his intentions, but he provided no indication as to when the ongoing drama in the offseason will come to an end.
“Therefore, the essence of the matter is… No, that urgency is not there. I completely comprehend the anxiety that arises when someone inquires as to whether or not you are missed.
Said Jones. “Well, you are missed, CeeDee. However, you are not left out of the competition, and it does not put any pressure on us.”
While wide receivers are flooded with huge contracts this offseason, Lamb is searching for his own.
Through his absence, the 2020 first-round draft pick has made his views clear.
The 25-year-old, who has a fifth-year option on his rookie contract that is worth $17.9 million in 2024, has missed training camp and did not show up for required minicamp or optional workouts.
Lamb just had his best statistical season and has established himself as one of the NFL’s top wide receivers. Together with 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns, he led the NFL with 135 receptions, a career high. He received his first-ever All-Pro selection and his third consecutive Pro Bowl distinction.
Although Jones tried his best to clarify some controversial remarks on Sunday, it is still unclear when one of the best wide receivers in the league will rejoin the Cowboys.
