CeeDee Lamb, a standout wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, recently found himself at the center of criticism from former Cowboys receiver Cole Beasley. Despite being away from the Cowboys’ offseason workout program due to ongoing contract negotiations, Lamb has remained dedicated to his fitness. He has been focusing on enhancing his “explosiveness” through various drills and workouts designed to improve an athlete’s “change of direction, creating separation, and YAC” (yards after catch). Notably, Lamb led the NFL in yards after catch last season.
Videos showcasing Lamb’s rigorous workouts quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention. Among those who chimed in was Cole Beasley, now more known for his outspoken opinions than his on-field performances. Beasley took to Twitter, suggesting Lamb should incorporate “heavy squats and power cleans” into his routine.
This unsolicited advice from Beasley, who has never surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in a season, was met with a swift backlash from fans. Many pointed out the disparity in their career achievements, highlighting that Lamb, who averages 1,286 yards per season, is already far ahead of Beasley’s career stats. One fan noted, “Is Cole really trying to tell CeeDee how to train? Beasley has literally never eclipsed 1k yards. Lamb is averaging 1,286 yards a year and 599 yards short of Cole in 4 years vs 11.”
Beasley attempted to defend his stance but only ended up exacerbating the situation. While he did have a notable season in 2020 with the Buffalo Bills, earning second-team All-Pro honors and recording 82 catches for 967 yards and four touchdowns, this pales in comparison to Lamb’s achievements. Even Lamb’s rookie season, with 74 catches for 935 yards and seven total touchdowns, outshines Beasley’s best.
Give me 180 targets off the couch and I eclipse 1000. Stop looking at stats and check the tape. As far as getting open goes…I’m confident I did that with the best of them. https://t.co/eGCuR33RDU
— Cole Beasley (@Bease11) July 5, 2024
Lamb, not one to let such comments go unanswered, responded to Beasley’s remarks. His reply was met with widespread approval, as fans rallied behind him. Last season, Lamb had the best year of his career, leading the NFL in receptions with 135, accumulating 1,749 yards, and scoring 12 touchdowns. He also added two rushing touchdowns to his impressive stats, earning first-team All-Pro honors and making his third Pro Bowl appearance.
In contrast, Beasley’s recent career trajectory has been less impressive. He spent a brief stint on the New York Giants practice squad before being released. This comparison only further underscored the absurdity of Beasley’s attempt to critique Lamb’s training regimen.
In the end, Lamb’s response to Beasley’s critique was seen as a decisive win. Fans and analysts alike praised Lamb for his poise and continued excellence on the field, solidifying his status as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL.