CeeDee Lamb Rejoins Cowboys with a Monumental $136-Million Extension
After a holdout that saw him miss organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California, CeeDee Lamb has officially rejoined the Dallas Cowboys, signing a substantial four-year, $136-million contract extension. The deal, which includes an impressive $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus, solidifies Lamb's position as a cornerstone of the Cowboys' offense.
A Triumphant Return
Lamb's return to the team was met with a wave of excitement and relief from both fans and teammates. Fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert recounted the moment with palpable enthusiasm: "We just heard a bunch of cheering, and we turn around, and he's [Lamb] walking through things like 'It's great to be back'."
Tolbert added, "Everyone was like, 'Hey Cee[Dee].' Just having that moment with him after he got what he deserved. We know that he works hard for what he got. So it's special to see a guy like that."
Focused and Ready
During his absence, Lamb remained committed to his physical and mental readiness by working out in Texas and South Florida. He also stayed connected with teammates and coaches through virtual means, utilizing his iPad to keep up with field activities and communicate regularly. According to Tolbert, Lamb was fully engaged even during his holdout: "He was plugged in. I woke up some mornings, and he texts me like 'Good morning bro, have a great day.' Or, he'll tell me about something that happened on the field."
Adding an extra 15 pounds of muscle, Lamb feels prepared for the challenges ahead. "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," Lamb remarked.
A New Contract, Same Role
Despite the significant financial uplift, head coach Mike McCarthy emphasized that Lamb's role within the team remains unchanged. "CeeDee's role will not change. He was our premier receiver last year. Our approach with him will be similar. I don't see that changing," McCarthy stated.
Reflecting on the contract negotiation process, Lamb expressed both relief and gratitude. "I can't really put it into words. I tell them I'm grateful to be here every moment of the day. This whole process was very crazy for me, as we all know. Very bittersweet," he said. Lamb also detailed a moment of uncertainty during the contract discussions: "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south'. Well, where do I sign?"
A Partnership with Prescott
Throughout his holdout, Lamb ensured he stayed in sync with quarterback Dak Prescott. The duo utilized Prescott's backyard field for practice sessions, maintaining their on-field chemistry. "We got our reps in for sure. The best thing about it, him having a field in his backyard. So anytime I came back home [from training in Florida], it was time [to throw with Prescott]," Lamb explained.
The bond between Lamb and Prescott extends beyond the field. Lamb has vocalized the importance of securing Prescott's contract extension, underscoring the mutual respect and camaraderie they share. "You look at our numbers together, they're at the top of the charts. I have no doubt that they're going to get a deal done. We all know that I want Dak here. Jerry wants Dak here, too, so let's just get this under control and kill the speculation and let's go win," Lamb emphasized.
Looking Forward
Now that the contractual concerns are behind him, Lamb is wholly concentrated on football. "We had a businessman conversation. Just had to clear the room. Everything is behind us. I'm not worried about nothing. We got what we needed to get done. Now it's time for me to go ball," he declared.
Lamb's reintroduction to the Cowboys took place at the Ford Center, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. With his blend of talent, newfound physicality, and unwavering dedication, CeeDee Lamb is poised to make a significant impact as he reclaims his spot on the field, ready to elevate the Cowboys' offense to new heights.