This offseason is a pivotal one for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb.
As he enters his fifth year in the NFL, the Oklahoma product is heading into the final year of his rookie contract. That means that the time is now for the Cowboys to sign Lamb to an extension or risk the 2023 first-team All-Pro becoming a free agent a year from now.
Considering that the 25-year-old would surely prefer to have the security of a big contract now and not later — as well as avoid the possibility of being franchised tagged next offseason — many have speculated that Lamb could holdout from the team’s offseason activities in an effort to force Dallas’ hand. Speaking to TMZ, the three-time Pro Bowl selection downplayed the possibility that he’ll holdout, as well as the uncertain nature of his contract status.
“Winning — I’m looking forward to winning and being out there with my guys, and making another run at this thing,” Lamb told the website of his plans. “Yeah, I’ll be in Dallas!”
Of course, it’s easy to say that now, but the true test of whether or not Lamb will holdout will come during the team’s mandatory minicamp in June. It’s also worth noting that the Cowboys are currently in a salary cap crunch, with just $3,691,626 in effective cap space according to OverTheCap.com.
Following Lamb’s comments, many took to social media to react.
Lamb’s lack of an extension is likely tied to Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson’s likelihood of resetting the WR market in the near future with their respective extensions. Waiting to extend him will likely cost Dallas more than they planned on paying if they continue to wait. https://t.co/Dt2T78ZTAA
— Game Time Discussions (@Its_GTD) April 9, 2024
🗣️OF COURSE…WAT KINDA QUESTION WAS DAT🤷🏾♂️🤠 https://t.co/bzhdOeLUTJ
— DentariasFoster (@handsomeNcockyD) April 9, 2024
Huge sigh of relief honestly 😭 https://t.co/4ErVyeBv03
— Just Cliff🧞♂️ (@cliffj_88) April 9, 2024
I love him!!!! https://t.co/G9uNGlfpGz
— MVP Texas (@MVPTEXAS) April 8, 2024
Let’s work @_CeeDeeThree https://t.co/wz4vVk5YIL
— BJ Ford (@bee_2smoov) April 9, 2024
[TMZ]
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.