There is still no resolution to the tensions between CeeDee Lamb and the Dallas Cowboys as the new NFL season draws near. Fans and pundits are left wondering if a settlement can be
reached in time for the standout wide receiver to join his teammates on the field as he persists in his holdout.
Lamb has been showing off his commitment to the gym and posting inspirational messages on social media, but the Cowboys’ administration is remaining silent on any developments regarding a contract extension.
Lamb appears committed to maintaining his best form despite the protracted contract negotiations. He has been spotted working out alone and posting updates about his workouts on Instagram. His most recent message, which reads,
“I’m working hard so my family can chill, I came out that part, where they don’t let you live,” suggests how determined he is. Give it your all, since it truly gave me something. Keep it trim nonetheless.” Although his commitment is clear, it is still unclear if the Cowboys would make him an offer that fits his ambitions.
🚨NEW: #Cowboys star receiver CeeDee Lamb on IG
“Stil waiting on that phone call… but until then, we grind.”
👀👀👀
(🎥@Brandoniswrite)
pic.twitter.com/2eyZY95uyy— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) August 23, 2024
The impasse arises as Lamb approaches the last year of his rookie deal, with a sizable $17.99 million salary due in 2024 under his fifth-year option. Lamb is apparently looking for an extension that would put him among the highest-paid receivers in the league, despite his stellar performance from the previous season, which included 135 receptions, 1,749 yards, and 12 touchdowns. Justin Jefferson’s recent contract with the Minnesota Vikings, which paid the young receiver a record-breaking $35 million yearly, has drawn comparisons.
Lamb’s career statistics undoubtedly support his claims. With 396 receptions, 5,145 receiving yards, and 32 touchdowns since his debut, he has established himself as a key member of the Cowboys offense. Dallas is eager to keep him wearing a Cowboys uniform, as seen by recent remarks made by General Manager Jerry Jones. The franchise is aware of his value.
“The truth is, I think we’ll work things out. I have no desire to speak for him. We wouldn’t have given him what we’ve given him if we didn’t want him to be here, which is what I’m trying not to do,” Jones said, making a suggestion about ongoing talks.
The Cowboys hope to get a deal done
CeeDee Lamb directly calls out Cowboys and shows what he is doing during contract holdout
Though these assurances are given, time is of the essence. Lamb’s absence from training camp has sparked questions ahead of the Cowboys’ regular season opener against the Cleveland Browns. When commenting on the matter, ESPN insider Adam Schefter said that although the two parties are close, the delay was unexpected.
On a deal, I believe the two sides aren’t all that far apart. During an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Schefter said, “I don’t think it should be that difficult, but again, he’s still not there, hasn’t gone through camp, so this has not gone the way that everyone expected.”
Now that the preseason is over, the Cowboys are under increasing pressure to make things right. Will Lamb be prepared and ready to play against the Browns in Week 1 or will the Cowboys’ season be further clouded by this ongoing contract standoff? Suspense is high among fans, who are expecting for a resolution before the season begins on September 8.
As the drama plays out, all eyes are on Dallas for the time being. High-stakes talks with elite players are nothing new for the Cowboys; this one with Lamb appears to be no exception. The result is still up in the air as the deadline approaches.
