The Dallas Cowboys have commenced their offseason program, but notable absences include key contributors from the 2023 season. While these workouts are voluntary, the absence of players draws attention, especially when their contract situations are unresolved.
One such player, CeeDee Lamb, is not participating in the voluntary offseason program as negotiations for a contract extension are ongoing. According to reports from the Dallas Morning News, substantive discussions regarding a new contract for Lamb have yet to occur. As a result, Lamb is currently slated to play the 2024 season under the fifth-year option.
Similarly, All-Pro pass rusher Micah Parsons is eligible for an extension this offseason and is also not present at the start of the offseason program. However, Parsons’ absence is not linked to contract negotiations. Instead, reports suggest that Parsons has opted for a personalized training regimen that he deems more beneficial.
Cowboys’ Parsons and Lamb Eye Lucrative Contract Extensions as Offseason Quietly Progresses
Last offseason, Parsons followed a similar approach, choosing to work out at The Kollective during the Cowboys’ voluntary program, as reported by Pro Football Talk. Despite his absence from the start of the program, Parsons did attend OTAs last year.
Both Lamb and Parsons possess the potential to command top-tier contracts whenever they finalize deals, whether with the Cowboys or elsewhere. Parsons, in particular, could potentially secure a contract that positions him as the highest-paid defensive player in the league, given his impactful performance since being drafted No. 12 in 2021.
The potential contract extensions for key players, coupled with Dak Prescott entering the final year of his contract, have contributed to a relatively quiet offseason for the Dallas Cowboys.
Executive VP Stephen Jones addressed this aspect while speaking to 105.3 The Fan on Tuesday, emphasizing the team’s commitment to managing the salary cap effectively. He stated, “When we’re all said and done, we max out our salary cap every year. We will have done that and what comes with having a good roster, which we do, we also are looking towards signing our own guys.
Cowboys Strategize Salary Cap Management Amidst Key Player Contract Talks
“It doesn’t mean it happens overnight. But when you’re wanting to sign players like (quarterback) Dak (Prescott) and (linebacker) Micah (Parsons) and (receiver) CeeDee (Lamb), then certainly you have to hold money back if you want to have a realistic chance of signing those guys.”
Micah Parsons, coming off a stellar season, earned second-team All-Pro honors after registering a career-high 14 sacks in 17 games, accompanied by 33 quarterback hits and 43 pressures.
Meanwhile, CeeDee Lamb showcased his prowess by setting franchise records with career-high numbers, including 135 receptions for 1,749 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023, surpassing milestones previously held by Michael Irvin.