CeeDee Lamb's Triumphant Return: Rejoining the Cowboys with a Record-Breaking Extension
CeeDee Lamb is back with the Dallas Cowboys, and he returns with a substantial financial boost. Fresh off signing a four-year, $136-million contract extension, Lamb has become the second-highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL, tied with Nick Bosa. This impressive deal showcases a $34 million average per year salary, $100 million in guaranteed money, and a $38 million signing bonus. The only non-quarterback ahead of Lamb in terms of compensation is Justin Jefferson, who averages $35 million per year.
Following a holdout that saw him skip all organized team activities, minicamp, and training camp in Oxnard, California, Lamb maintained his fitness and preparedness by working out in Texas and South Florida. The wide receiver added 15 pounds of muscle during this period, demonstrating his commitment to returning stronger than ever.
Despite his absence, Lamb remained connected with his teammates and coaches via his iPad, keeping up with team updates and maintaining his role in the squad. "He was plugged in," said fellow Cowboys player Jalen Tolbert. "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."
Head coach Mike McCarthy assured that Lamb’s role within the team would remain 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. Lamb’s commitment to teamwork was evident as he made it a point to practice with quarterback Dak Prescott at Prescott's backyard field, ensuring their synergy remained intact.
The Ford Center was abuzz with excitement as Lamb was reintroduced to the Cowboys. Describing the moment, Tolbert recounted, "We just heard a bunch of cheering, and we turn around, and he's walking through things like 'It's great to be back'."
Lamb was always confident that a deal would be reached, but admitted the process tested his patience. "I had no doubt. But I will say I was getting impatient," he confessed. The negotiation journey was an emotional rollercoaster for the star receiver. Reflecting on it, Lamb said, "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."
A particularly tense moment came when Lamb’s agent FaceTimed him with what seemed like grim news. "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?" This pivotal moment marked the turning point toward securing the extension.
With his contract situation now resolved, Lamb is fully focused on the field. "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 said.
Lamb’s transformation during the holdout period, including the 15 pounds of added muscle, has him feeling more prepared than ever. "I've got some body armor on me. I can take a couple more hits. I'm prepared for my opportunities," Lamb declared.
Beyond his own contract, Lamb emphasized the importance of securing a contract extension for quarterback Dak Prescott. "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," he urged.
As Lamb rejoins the Cowboys with a renewed sense of purpose and an impressive contract, the team and its fans are eager to see what the future holds. The road ahead looks promising as Lamb and the Cowboys aim to capitalize on this significant milestone.