CeeDee Lamb, the Dallas Cowboys wide receiver, has concluded his holdout by signing a significant four-year, $136 million contract, which positions him as the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, as reported by sources. This deal includes a record-setting $38 million signing bonus for a wide receiver and guarantees $100 million.
Initially, Lamb was scheduled to play the 2024 season under the $17.99 million fifth-year option of his rookie contract, with free agency looming after that season. However, the new agreement secures his position with the Cowboys through the 2028 season.
Currently, Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings holds the top contract in the market at $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 now stands as the highest-paid wide receiver in Cowboys franchise history.
Historically, Amari Cooper’s five-year contract worth $100 million in 2020, paired with $40 million guaranteed, and Dez Bryant’s five-year, $70 million deal in 2015 with $45 million guaranteed, were the previous high points for the team.
Despite missing training camp and three preseason games, which could have resulted in fines exceeding $3 million, the Cowboys can cancel these penalties since he was still on his rookie contract.
Head coach Mike McCarthy expressed optimism about Lamb’s return, emphasizing the positive impact his presence can have on the team’s morale and energy. “He brings that type of energy to our locker room,” McCarthy stated.
This week, the Cowboys will conduct three practices at The Star in Frisco, Texas, where they plan to reintegrate Lamb cautiously into the team following his absence from training camp in Oxnard, California. Lamb continued to work out independently, but the coaching staff aims to minimize the risk of injury as they prepare for the season opener against the Cleveland Browns on September 8.
While Lamb’s contract situation is resolved, several other players are still awaiting contract decisions as the season approaches, including Brandon Aiyuk and Trent Williams of the 49ers, Haason Reddick of the Jets, and Ja’Marr Chase of the Bengals.
McCarthy highlighted Lamb’s extraordinary work ethic and endurance, noting the need to balance his intensity during practices. Beyond physical condition, the Cowboys aim to refine the chemistry between Lamb and the team through on-field drills and gameplay scenarios.
Lamb has solidified his place among Cowboys legends, wearing the prestigious No. 88 jersey previously donned by Hall of Famers Drew Pearson and Michael Irvin, as well as Dez Bryant. The Cowboys recognized Lamb’s exceptional talent when they selected him with the 17th overall pick in the 2020 draft, where he was rated as the sixth-best prospect. Over his career so far, he has set franchise records with 395 receptions, 5,145 receiving yards, and 18 games with over 100 yards, including breaking single-season records in 2023 with 135 catches and 1,749 yards.
His versatility has also been a key asset, as he operated effectively both in the slot and outside, demonstrating his ability to produce touchdowns and yardage from various positions. Lamb’s performance included seven games with at least 11 receptions, a record for a single season, and he ended the previous season scoring in nine consecutive games.
The Cowboys previously approached Lamb regarding an extension in 2023, but discussions did not advance. As he continues to evolve at 25, questions remain about his future connection with quarterback Dak Prescott, whose contract is set to expire after this season. While the Cowboys hope to solidify a long-term deal, Prescott may explore options on the open market if negotiations do not progress, as the team cannot franchise him.
With Lamb now under contract, the Cowboys can concentrate on securing Prescott’s future as they gear up for the forthcoming season.