The situation between star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and the Dallas Cowboys is deteriorating. Following an offseason marked by unsuccessful contract extension talks, the training camp is set to begin in a few weeks. Calvin Watkins of the Dallas Morning News reports that Lamb, 25, is expected to hold out from camp as he seeks a lucrative long-term contract.
Lamb is reportedly aiming for at least $32 million annually and is frustrated with owner Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ management over the stalled extension negotiations.
Drafted in the first round out of Oklahoma in the 2020 NFL Draft, Lamb has become one of the top receivers in the league. The three-time Pro Bowler is entering the final year of his rookie contract, set to earn only $17.99 million, which is significantly below market value considering recent wide receiver contracts, such as Justin Jefferson’s record-breaking four-year, $140 million extension with the Minnesota Vikings.
The situation is complicated for Dallas. Star quarterback Dak Prescott will become a free agent after the 2024 season if not extended, and edge rusher Micah Parsons is seeking a long-term deal worth over $30 million annually. This raises the question of whether the Cowboys might trade Lamb for a combination of draft assets and players. Stranger things have happened in the NFL.