CeeDee Lamb’s Momentous Return: A Contract But No Change in Dedication
It was a moment of elation for Dallas Cowboys fans and teammates alike when star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb rejoined the squad, fresh off inking a four-year, $136-million contract extension. The deal cements Lamb as the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tied with Nick Bosa and just below Justin Jefferson, who leads but with a slightly higher average per year.
“We just heard a bunch of cheering, and we turn around, and he's walking through, saying 'It's great to be back,’” recounted fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert. The sense of relief and joy was palpable as Lamb finally reentered the fold at the Ford Center after a strenuous holdout.
The Holdout
Lamb's journey to this milestone was anything but straightforward. Missing all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California, he instead worked out independently in Texas and South Florida. Despite the physical distance, Lamb stayed connected with his teammates and coaches through his iPad, making sure he wasn't missing out on crucial team developments.
“He was plugged in,” Tolbert revealed. “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.”
The negotiation phase was nerve-wracking, filled with highs and lows. “My agent FaceTimed me. It was actually kind of crazy. He hit me with a 'Yeah, man, this is going south,’” Lamb shared. The anxiety was felt deeply by not just him but also by the organization and fans. Yet, Lamb maintained a steady focus, culminating in an unequivocal decision once his agent relayed that the deal was finally on the table: “Well, where do I sign?”
Unyielding Dedication
Despite the tension of contract negotiations, Lamb had his eyes on one goal: performing on the field. He added 15 pounds of muscle during his holdout, equipping himself for the toll a rigorous NFL season demands. “I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities,” he asserted, highlighting his unyielding dedication.
One constant throughout Lamb's holdout was his commitment to his quarterback, Dak Prescott. They made sure to maintain their chemistry by practicing in Prescott's backyard whenever Lamb was in town. “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 camaraderie and the mutual respect between Lamb and Prescott are evident. Their on-field numbers are among the league's best, reinforcing Lamb's confidence in their partnership. “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,” Lamb said, expressing his desire for Prescott's contract extension to be finalized. “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.”
Back to Business
Now with his contract negotiations behind him, Lamb’s focus returns squarely to football. Head coach Mike McCarthy was clear about Lamb's role in the forthcoming season. “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 unequivocally.
Lamb himself echoed his readiness, stating, “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.”
The sentiment was shared by his teammates. “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,” said Tolbert, encapsulating the team's collective emotions.
Lamb's return to the Cowboys symbolizes more than just a new contract; it represents an unwavering commitment to the team and to his own personal growth. As he proudly stated, “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.”
With the ink now dry on his lucrative contract, Lamb is set to once again light up the field, fortified by newfound confidence and muscle. Cowboys fans can rest assured that their star receiver is back and ready to give it his all.