CeeDee Lamb Returns to Cowboys with a $136 Million Paycheck
In a triumphant return to the Dallas Cowboys, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb has solidified his future with the team by signing a four-year, $136 million contract extension. This lucrative deal makes Lamb the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tying him with standout defensive end Nick Bosa.
The agreement, which includes a staggering $100 million in guaranteed money, a $38 million signing bonus, and a $34 million average yearly salary, marks a significant milestone for Lamb's career. The only non-quarterback with a higher salary than Lamb is Minnesota Vikings’ wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who earns an average of $35 million per year.
Training in Isolation
The journey to this new contract was not without its challenges. Lamb missed all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California while holding out for a better deal. During this period, he committed himself to rigorous workouts in Texas and South Florida. His efforts paid off physically as well, as he emerged from the holdout with an additional 15 pounds of muscle.
"I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," Lamb stated, highlighting his increased physical readiness for the upcoming season.
Keeping Connected
Despite his physical absence, Lamb managed to stay connected with his team. He maintained communication with his teammates and coaches through his iPad, ensuring he remained in sync with the team's plans and strategies. Fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert recounted moments of camaraderie, saying, "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."
Lamb also made it a point to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field whenever he returned from his training sessions in Florida. "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, it was time to throw with Prescott," Lamb mentioned, emphasizing the importance of this consistent practice.
Back with the Boys
Upon his return, Lamb was welcomed with open arms at the Ford Center. The atmosphere was electric when he walked in, with fellow players and staff cheering. “We just heard a bunch of cheering, and we turn around, and he's walking through things like, ‘It's great to be back,’" Tolbert recalled.
Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed that Lamb's role on the team will remain unchanged despite the holdout and contract negotiations. "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.
The Deal's Impact
Lamb reflected on the holdout and the subsequent contract, describing the experience as "very crazy" and "bittersweet." He expressed gratitude to the organization and his agents for navigating the tumultuous process. "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.
He added some insight into the emotional rollercoaster he endured, saying, "My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a ‘Yeah, man, this is going south.’” However, Lamb's resolve and commitment to the team remained steadfast. "Well, where do I sign?" he quipped when the deal finally came together.
With his contract now secured, Lamb is laser-focused on the upcoming season. "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.
Looking Forward
Lamb is also keen on ensuring that Prescott's contract extension is finalized soon. "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 urged, signaling his belief in the duo's potential success.
While the holdout brought anxiety to fans and the organization alike, the excitement surrounding Lamb’s return is palpable. The Cowboys are undeniably stronger with Lamb back in the fold, ready to make an impact and lead the charge in the upcoming NFL season.