CeeDee Lamb Strikes Major Deal: What This Means for the Cowboys

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Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has ended his holdout and finalized a four-year, $136 million contract, making him the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, according to sources. The deal, reported on Monday, features a $38 million signing bonus, the largest ever awarded to a wide receiver, and provides $100 million in guaranteed money.

Initially, Lamb was set to play the 2024 season under the $17.99 million fifth-year option of his rookie contract before entering free agency. However, the Cowboys have now secured him through the 2028 season.

Currently, the highest-paid wide receiver is Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings, who earns $35 million annually, followed by A.J. Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles at $32 million, Amon-Ra St. Brown of the Detroit Lions at $30.003 million, and Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins at $30 million.

Lamb’s new contract also makes him the highest-paid wide receiver in Cowboys’ history, surpassing Amari Cooper’s five-year, $100 million deal from 2020, which had $40 million fully guaranteed, and Dez Bryant’s five-year, $70 million deal from 2015, with $45 million guaranteed.

Despite missing training camp and three preseason games, which could have resulted in fines exceeding $3 million, the Cowboys have the option to rescind these penalties since he was under his rookie contract.

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy emphasized that Lamb’s return would significantly boost team morale. He highlighted Lamb’s positive energy and contributions, saying that his presence would invigorate the locker room.

This week, the Cowboys will conduct three practices at The Star in Frisco, Texas. McCarthy noted that they plan to be cautious with Lamb’s integration into training after his absence in Oxnard, California, where the training camp was held. While Lamb has been working out on his own, the team aims to mitigate any injury risks ahead of their season opener against the Cleveland Browns on September 8.

Though Lamb’s contract is now settled, several player contract negotiations remain unresolved with the NFL season fast approaching. Notable players still negotiating include Brandon Aiyuk and Trent Williams from the 49ers, Haason Reddick from the Jets, and Ja’Marr Chase from the Bengals.

McCarthy praised Lamb’s stamina and work ethic, stating that the coaching staff must focus on moderating his practice intensity while prioritizing the synchronization of routes and techniques with teammates.

Since joining the Cowboys, Lamb has worn the iconic No. 88, which has been previously donned by Hall of Famers Drew Pearson and Michael Irvin. Drafted 17th overall in 2020, Lamb has excelled in his four seasons, leading Cowboys receivers in receptions (395) and yards (5,145). In 2023, he set team records for catches (135) and receiving yards (1,749), surpassing records held by Irvin.

Lamb’s versatility has also been a critical asset, allowing him to perform effectively in different positions on the field. Last season, he recorded multiple significant performances, including seven games with at least 11 receptions, marking the most by any NFL receiver in a single season.

Looking ahead, the Cowboys are optimistic about Lamb’s potential, while there is anticipation regarding Dak Prescott’s future with the team. Prescott’s contract expires after the season, and although the Cowboys aim to secure a long-term deal, there remains the possibility he could enter free agency due to restrictions on franchise tagging. With Lamb now under contract, the team hopes to focus on advancing Prescott’s negotiations as the season opener nears.

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