Given that CeeDee Lamb started his official holdout in June by skipping the required minicamp, there was a potential he might not be there when the Dallas Cowboys returned to Oxnard for training camp in 2024. Now that he and the organization are working through the specifics of a new contract, that has extended until late July.
After a record-breaking season, 25-year-old Lamb has established himself as not just Dallas’ top receiver but possibly the finest in the whole NFL at the position.
Both video and statistical data support that, as Lamb amassed 1,749 receiving yards, 12 receiving touchdowns on 135 receptions, two rushing scores (and six rushing first downs) because, yes, he also played running back on occasion.
Lamb will undoubtedly surpass Justin Jefferson as the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL with his current level of output; Jefferson was signed to a multi-year contract by the Vikings earlier this summer.
Zack Martin, the Cowboys’ perennial All-Pro right guard, was the most notable recent holdout. He finally showed up for camp a few days after his contract was successfully renegotiated. Additionally, the CBA permits any player with a contract to have his contract forgiven by the team, which is something the Cowboys may do even though Martin was hit with hefty fines for his unconscionable absence.
Lamb’s rookie contract is still in effect as of right now because his 2023 fifth-year option was triggered.
After working extensively off-site this offseason with fellow All-Pro and Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, the Pro Bowler will not be visible on the practice field. Until then, players like Jalen Tolbert, Jalen Brooks, KaVontae Turpin, and rookie sixth-round pick Ryan Flournoy, among others, will need to seize the additional opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in the battle royale behind Lamb and Brandin Cooks.
Lamb stated in April that he will play for the Cowboys in 2024 and that his holdout and fines are just a part of doing business.
“Winning — I am looking forward to winning and being out there with my guys, and making another run at this thing,” he stated. “… Indeed, I will be in Dallas.
When is the only question left.