Star Receiver Left Waiting in the Shadows as Contract Standoff Casts Dark Cloud Over Cowboys’ Future
Dallas Cowboys star receiver CeeDee Lamb may be holding out for a new contract, but that hasn’t stopped him from preparing for the upcoming season. Despite missing all of training camp and two preseason games, Lamb says he’s been “grinding” while waiting for negotiations to conclude.
On Friday, August 23, Lamb posted a video on social media with a message about his situation, saying, “Still waiting on that phone call, but until then we grind. Control what I can control and that’s to be the best version of me.”
Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb, who continues to holdout for his new contract, in a new video says:
“Still waiting on that phone call, but until then we grind…control what I can control and that’s to be the best version of me.” #DallasCowboys
(🎥: @itsviso IG) pic.twitter.com/49Qcm66A0j
— Kevin Gray Jr. (@KevinGraySports) August 23, 2024
Lamb, in the final year of his rookie deal, is set to earn around $18 million next season. However, the All-Pro receiver is seeking an extension closer to the top salaries of wideouts like Minnesota’s Justin Jefferson, who pulls in $35 million annually. Recent reports suggest Dallas has come close to offering Lamb $33 million per year, but key elements such as cash flow, guarantees, and contract length remain in negotiation.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter indicated that the sides aren’t far apart, stating, “I and others believe that they will figure out a way to bridge their differences so that CeeDee Lamb will be there for Week 1.”
"I and others believe that CeeDee Lamb will be with the Dallas Cowboys for week one..
I think they find a way to figure out a deal"@AdamSchefter #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/MVOhjmutqA
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) August 20, 2024
Lamb, who finished last season with a league-high 135 receptions, 1,749 yards, and 12 touchdowns, has been working out independently during the holdout. Coach Mike McCarthy expressed confidence that Lamb will be ready once he returns, saying, “He’s going to come in here ready to go and will pick up like he never left.”
Cowboys teammates have also voiced their support, with linebacker Micah Parsons stating, “On Week 1, he will be suiting up for the Dallas Cowboys.”
Dallas is set to finish its preseason against the Los Angeles Chargers on August 24, with hopes that Lamb’s contract situation will be resolved before their regular-season opener against the Cleveland Browns.
